Flood Watch Issued for Kimberley Rivers as Monsoon Trough Intensifies
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for the East, North, and West Kimberley Rivers due to an active monsoon trough and potential tropical lows.
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 intensifying monsoon trough and the potential development of tropical lows 28U and 30U.
Affected Areas
The following catchments in Western Australia are likely to be affected:
- West Kimberley Rivers
- North Kimberley Rivers
- East Kimberley Rivers
Note that a Minor Flood warning is currently in effect for the Fitzroy River catchment, and a separate Flood Watch is active for parts of the Top End, including the East Kimberley Rivers catchment.
What You Should Do
Residents and travelers in the warning area should take the following precautions:
- Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is dangerous.
- Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
- Obey all road closure signs and plan routes to avoid flooded roads.
- Check road conditions before traveling, as some communities and homesteads may become isolated.
- Monitor the ABC and local media for updates.
- For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.
Expected Conditions
The monsoon trough is becoming more active, with an increased potential for tropical lows to develop. Moderate to heavy rainfall has been recorded in the East and North Kimberley Rivers catchments since Saturday morning. Because catchments are already relatively wet, further rainfall is expected to cause significant water level rises in rivers and creeks. This may lead to prolonged overland flooding, ponding, and impassable roads.
Timeline
The alert was issued at 11:58 am AWST on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The situation is expected to persist over the coming days as the monsoon trough remains active. The next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 1:00 pm AWST on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Source: BOM Official Notice