Major Flood Warning Issued for Cooper Creek and Warburton River in South Australia

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued Flood Warning Number 2 for the Inland Rivers of South Australia. This major flood warning indicates that flooding is currently occurring along Cooper Creek and elevated river levels are being monitored along the Warburton River.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following geographic regions and locations:

• Cooper Creek: Innamincka and Cullyamurra Waterhole.
• Warburton River: Poothapootha Waterhole.
• General Region: North-eastern and central South Australia, including the North East Pastoral district and the Inland Rivers.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas are advised to take the following safety precautions:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is dangerous and conditions can change quickly.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and all waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel ahead to avoid flooded roads.
• Monitor the ABC and local media for updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

Moderate to heavy rainfall over recent days has led to significant creek level rises. At Innamincka, river levels were recorded at approximately 6.3 meters above the causeway as of Wednesday morning. At Cullyamurra Waterhole, the river height was measured at 7.01 meters and is continuing to rise.

Floodwater is likely to cut roads and access tracks, particularly at river and creek crossings. This is expected to impact the transportation and movement of local communities and travelers in the region.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 10:24 am ACDT on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. Rises at Cullyamurra Waterhole and Innamincka are expected to continue for the next few days. The Bureau of Meteorology intends to issue the next update by 1:00 PM ACDT on Thursday, 26 February 2026.