Major Flood Warning Issued for Flinders River at Walkers Bend and Downstream of Richmond

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDQ20878) for the Flinders and Cloncurry Rivers. This is the 21st flood warning issued for this event, effective as of 10:26 am AEST on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Affected Areas

The primary impact zone includes the Flinders River at Walkers Bend and areas downstream of Richmond. Additionally, elevated river levels are affecting the Cloncurry River, specifically passing through Canobie, upstream of its junction with the Flinders River. Other monitored locations include Glendower Crossing, Porcupine Creek at Mt Emu Plains, Punchbowl, Etta Plains, Julia Creek, and Gilliat River at Wills Development Road.

What You Should Do

Residents 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.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded roads.
• Stay informed by checking the ABC and local media for updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.
• Visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings for local emergency management advice.

Expected Conditions

Major flooding is likely at Walkers Bend as floodwaters from both the Cloncurry and Flinders rivers converge. The Flinders River at Walkers Bend was recorded at 7.52 meters and rising as of 7:00 am Wednesday. It is expected to exceed the major flood level of 8.00 meters. Further rises are possible as upstream flows arrive. Meanwhile, the Flinders River at Etta Plains remains steady at 9.56 meters, and the Cloncurry River at Canobie is steady at 8.27 meters.

Timeline

Major flooding is expected to begin at Walkers Bend from Thursday into Friday. The current warning remains in effect with the next update scheduled to be issued by 11:00 am AEST on Thursday, March 5, 2026.