Flood Watch Issued for Northern Territory and Queensland Inland Catchments

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Flood Watch (IDD20590) for parts of the Eastern, Central, and Western inland areas of the Northern Territory and parts of Queensland. This is the eighth flood watch issued for this event, categorized with a moderate severity level.

Affected Areas

The following catchments and regions are included in the watch area:

• Georgina River and Eyre Creek
• Finke River and Stephenson Creek
• Simpson Desert
• MacDonnell Ranges (eastern areas)
• Central Desert
• Tanami Desert (eastern areas)
• Barkly (southern areas)

A related Flood Watch is also current for parts of South Australia.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers are advised to:

• Avoid driving, walking, swimming, or playing in floodwaters as they are dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel ahead to avoid flooded routes.
• Monitor local media and the ABC for updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

A slow-moving tropical low situated over the far southeast of the Simpson District is drawing rich tropical moisture into the region. Significant rainfall has already been recorded, and further heavy falls are forecast, particularly over the Simpson Desert and parts of the Georgina and Eyre Creek. Because catchments are already wet, they are expected to respond quickly to additional precipitation. Localized flooding and overland inundation are occurring and are expected to become more extensive. Many roads are currently impacted, and some communities may face isolation. Conditions may also affect the welfare of livestock.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 12:27 PM ACST on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. Further flooding is expected over the next few days. The Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 1:30 PM ACST on Thursday, 26 February 2026.