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

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDD20545) for the Daly River. This is the 15th warning issued for this event, as of 2:50 pm ACST on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The alert remains in effect with the next update scheduled for Wednesday morning.

Affected Areas

The primary impact zone includes the Daly River at the Daly River Police Station and the Lower Daly River. Major flooding is also being monitored at Beeboom Crossing and Mount Nancar. Additionally, a Moderate Flood Warning is currently in place for the Katherine River, and a Flood Watch is active for parts of the Top End.

Expected Conditions

Significant and prolonged major flooding is currently occurring. At the Daly River Police Station, the river was recorded at 14.97 meters and rising slowly as of Monday evening. This level already exceeds the February 2026 flood levels of 14.26 meters.

Forecasters expect the river to exceed 15.50 meters by Wednesday morning as upstream flows arrive. This would surpass the historic 1957 flood levels of 15.19 meters. Further rainfall is possible over the coming days, which may exacerbate current river levels.

Timeline

Residents should prepare for an extended period of major flooding. The flood peak is currently moving towards Beeboom Crossing after passing through Theyona station. An extended peak and significant flooding period are expected to persist through the upcoming weekend and into next week.

What You Should Do

Emergency officials advise the following safety measures:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater, as it is extremely dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and all waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded routes.
• Monitor the ABC and local media for further updates.
• For local emergency management advice, visit www.securent.nt.gov.au.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.