Flood Watch Issued for Kimberley Rivers as Monsoon Trough Brings Heavy Rainfall to Western Australia

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Flood Watch (IDW39605) for parts of the Kimberley region. This alert serves as early advice for possible flooding within specified catchments due to an active monsoon trough and tropical lows.

Affected Areas

The following catchments in Western Australia are likely to be affected:

• West Kimberley Rivers
• North Kimberley Rivers
• East Kimberley Rivers

Localised flooding is already occurring in parts of the East Kimberley Rivers. Additionally, a Moderate Flood Warning is currently active for the Fitzroy River catchment.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the warning area are advised to:

• Avoid floodwater: Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is dangerous.
• Stay clear of hazards: Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Follow road safety: Obey all road closure signs and check road conditions before traveling, as roads may become impassable.
• Stay informed: Monitor the ABC and local media for updates. For local emergency management advice, visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au.
• Emergency Contacts: For SES assistance, call 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

An active monsoon trough and several tropical lows are being monitored. Moderate to heavy rainfall has been recorded across the Kimberley since Saturday morning, leaving catchments relatively wet. Further rainfall is expected to cause significant water level rises in rivers and creeks, leading to prolonged overland flooding and ponding. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated.

Timeline

The Flood Watch was issued at 12:43 pm AWST on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The situation is being monitored, and the next update is scheduled to be issued by 1:00 pm AWST on Thursday, March 5, 2026.