Major Flood Warning Issued for Daly River: Levels Expected to Exceed Historic 1957 Records

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDD20545) for the Daly River. This update confirms significant and prolonged major flooding is occurring at the Daly River Police Station and surrounding areas.

Affected Areas

The following geographic regions and waterways are currently under warning:

• Daly River: Specifically at the Daly River Police Station and the Lower Daly River.
• Fergusson River: Elevated levels are reported along the river and its tributaries.
• Daly River above Douglas River: River level rises are occurring in the upper reaches.
• Key Monitoring Points: Dorisvale Crossing, Douglas Crossing, Beeboom Crossing, and Mount Nancar.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should take the following precautions:

• Avoid Floodwater: Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is extremely dangerous.
• Stay Clear: Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and all waterways.
• Travel Safety: Obey all road closure signs and plan routes to avoid flooded roads.
• Stay Informed: Monitor the ABC and local media for updates. Visit www.securent.nt.gov.au for local emergency management advice.
• Emergency Assistance: Call the SES at 132 500 for help. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

Major flooding is already underway, with the Daly River at Daly River Police Station recorded at 14.44 metres and rising as of Sunday afternoon.

• Projected Rises: The river is expected to exceed 14.80 metres overnight Sunday into Monday.
• Historic Comparison: Levels are likely to exceed 15.30 metres on Wednesday, which is higher than the historic 1957 flood level of 15.19 metres.
• Upstream Flows: The main flood peak from the Katherine River is still moving downstream and has yet to reach Dorisvale, which will contribute to further rises.

Timeline

The alert is currently active, with the next update scheduled for Sunday evening. A significant period of major flooding is expected to persist through next weekend (March 14-15) and into the following week. Further rainfall remains possible over the coming days.