Flood Watch Issued for Kimberley Rivers in Western Australia Amid Tropical Low Threat

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 as weather conditions deteriorate.

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.

Expected Conditions

An active monsoon trough and the potential development of a tropical low (30U) are expected to bring increased rainfall to the region. Moderate to heavy rainfall has already been observed in the East and North Kimberley catchments since Saturday morning. Because catchments are already relatively wet from recent precipitation, the forecast rainfall is likely to cause significant water level rises in rivers and creeks. Residents should prepare for prolonged overland flooding and ponding. Impacts may include impassable roads and the isolation of some communities and homesteads.

What You Should Do

• Safety First: Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater. Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Travel Planning: Check road conditions before traveling and obey all road closure signs. Plan ahead to avoid driving on flooded roads.
• Stay Informed: Monitor the ABC and local media for updates. For local emergency management advice, visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au.
• Emergency Contacts: For emergency assistance, call the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Timeline

The Flood Watch is effective from late Monday, March 2, 2026. The situation is evolving quickly, and the Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 1:00 PM AWST on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.