Initial Minor Flood Warning Issued for Don River and Bowen Pump Station

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an initial minor flood warning (IDQ20750) for the Don River. The warning was issued at 2:16 pm AEST on Friday, March 6, 2026, in response to moderate rainfall and rising river levels.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically concerns the Don River catchment in Queensland. Key locations monitored include the Bowen Pump Station, Ida Creek, Mount Dangar, and Reeves. A broader Flood Watch is also currently in effect for most of Queensland.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected area should adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater; it is dangerous and unpredictable.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded roads.
• Monitor the ABC and local media for situation updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.
• Visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings for local emergency management advice.

Expected Conditions

Moderate rainfall since Friday morning is likely to cause river level rises. The Don River at Bowen Pump Station was recorded at 1.20 meters and steady as of 12:46 pm Friday, which is currently below the minor flood level. However, the river is forecast to reach the minor flood level of 2.50 meters overnight Friday into Saturday. Further rainfall is forecast across the catchment for the remainder of Friday and into the weekend, which may lead to additional rises.

Timeline

The warning is effective immediately. The river level at Bowen Pump Station is expected to reach the minor flood threshold overnight Friday. The Bureau of Meteorology will closely monitor the situation and expects to issue the next update by 2:00 PM AEST on Saturday, March 7, 2026.