Major Flood Warning Issued for Diamantina River at Birdsville and Surrounding Areas

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDQ20865) for the Diamantina River. The warning was issued at 11:50 am AEST on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, following significant rainfall across the catchment last week that resulted in rapid river level rises.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Diamantina River catchment, specifically focusing on the following locations in Queensland:

• Birdsville Police Station: Currently experiencing moderate flooding, with major flooding possible.
• Diamantina Lakes: Currently experiencing moderate flooding.
• Roseberth Station: Currently experiencing moderate flooding with rising levels.
• Monkira and Durrie Station: Currently experiencing minor flooding.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the warning area are urged to prioritize safety:

• Avoid Floodwater: Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is dangerous.
• Stay Away from Waterways: Keep a safe distance from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Obey Road Closures: Do not attempt to drive on flooded roads and follow all official road closure signs.
• Emergency Assistance: For emergency help, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local media and visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings for local emergency management advice.

Expected Conditions

• Birdsville Police Station: The river level is currently 7.10 meters and falling, but is expected to reach the major flood level of 8.00 meters later this week as upstream flows arrive.
• Diamantina Lakes: The river is currently at 5.72 meters and steady, which is above the moderate flood level (4.00 m) and the Springvale Diamantina Lakes Road Causeway level (2.10 m).
• Roseberth Station: The river level was last observed at 5.18 meters and rising.
• Monkira: The river level is currently 3.54 meters and steady.

Moderate rainfall is forecast over the next two days in the lower catchment, which may contribute to further river level rises.

Timeline

The warning is effective immediately. Major flooding is expected to reach Birdsville later this week. The Bureau of Meteorology will issue the next update by 12:00 PM AEST on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.