Flood Watch Issued for North and East Kimberley Rivers in 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, issued at 11:46 am AWST on Friday, March 6, 2026, serves as early advice for possible flooding within specified catchments. This is the sixth flood watch issued for this event.

Affected Areas

The flood watch specifically covers the following catchments in Western Australia:

• North Kimberley Rivers
• East Kimberley Rivers

While previously monitored, flooding is no longer expected in the West Kimberley catchment. Separate flood warnings remain current for the Fitzroy River.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas are advised to 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 ahead to avoid driving on flooded roads.
• Check road conditions before traveling, as some communities and homesteads may become isolated.
• Monitor the ABC and local media for updates as the situation can change quickly.
• For emergency assistance, call the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

An active monsoon trough remains across the northern Kimberley, coupled with a tropical low located over the Northern Territory. Following moderate to heavy rainfall since last weekend, catchments in the area are already relatively wet. Widespread showers and isolated heavier falls are likely to continue over the next few days. These conditions may lead to:

• Renewed river and creek level rises.
• Prolonged overland flooding and ponding.
• Potential isolation of remote communities and homesteads due to affected road access.

Timeline

The alert was issued on Friday, March 6, 2026, and remains in effect. The Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 12:00 PM AWST on Saturday, March 7, 2026.