Minor Flood Warning Issued for Upper Victoria River and Kalkarindji

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued Minor Flood Warning Number 5 for the Victoria River. The alert follows recent moderate rainfall across the upper Victoria River catchment and continued activity from a monsoon trough.

Affected Areas

The primary area of concern is the Upper Victoria River, specifically at Kalkarindji. Other monitored locations with rising levels include Dashwood Crossing and Victoria River Crossing. A broader Flood Watch remains in effect for parts of the Bonaparte, North West Coastal, and Carpentaria Coastal River catchments.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised not to 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 routes. For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately. Monitor the ABC and local media for further updates.

Expected Conditions

As of 12:00 PM ACST Wednesday, the Victoria River at Kalkarindji was recorded at 9.32 meters and rising. The river is forecast to peak near 9.60 meters on Wednesday afternoon. Continued rainfall associated with a monsoon trough is expected over the next few days, which may lead to further rises.

Latest river heights recorded include:

• Victoria River at Kalkarindji: 9.32 m (Rising)
• Victoria River at Dashwood Crossing: 10.34 m (Rising)
• Victoria River at Victoria River Crossing: 11.01 m (Rising)
• Wickham River at Williams Crossing: 3.93 m (Steady)

Timeline

The warning was issued at 12:21 PM ACST on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The river is expected to remain above the minor flood level of 9.00 meters through the remainder of Wednesday and into Thursday. The next official update is scheduled to be issued by 12:00 PM ACST on Thursday, March 5, 2026.