Major Flood Warning Issued for Bulloo River at Quilpie and Thargomindah

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDQ20855) for the Bulloo River. This update follows recent localised heavy rainfall over parts of the upper Bulloo River catchment, which has caused significant river level rises at Milroy and downstream locations.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following regions in Queensland:

• Bulloo River at Quilpie: Currently experiencing major flooding.
• Bulloo River at Thargomindah: Minor flooding possible from late Thursday.
• Bulloo River downstream of Quilpie
• Bulloo River to Quilpie

Expected Conditions

• Quilpie: The river level was recorded at 5.04 meters and rising as of 1:00 pm Wednesday, surpassing the major flood level of 5.00 meters. It is forecast to reach approximately 5.40 meters on Wednesday evening, with further rises likely as upstream flows arrive.
• Thargomindah: While currently below the minor flood level, the river is forecast to reach the 4.00-meter minor flood level starting late Thursday as upstream flows arrive.
• Autumnvale: The river level was recorded at 2.07 meters and steady as of 1:00 pm Wednesday.

Timeline

• Effective Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
• Current Status: Major flooding is occurring at Quilpie as of Wednesday afternoon.
• Forecast Window: Minor flooding is expected to begin at Thargomindah late Thursday, February 19.
• Next Update: The BOM expects to issue the next warning by 10:30 am AEST on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are urged to prioritize safety and follow these instructions:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater; it is dangerous and conditions can change quickly.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel routes to avoid flooded roads.
• Stay informed by checking the ABC and local media for updates.
• For local emergency management warnings and advice, visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings.
• For emergency assistance, call the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.