Moderate Flood Warning Issued for Waterhouse River at Beswick Bridge, Northern Territory

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Moderate Flood Warning (IDD20565) for the Waterhouse River. This is the second flood warning issued for this event, following significant river level rises caused by recent moderate rainfall across the catchment area.

Affected Areas

The primary area of concern is the Waterhouse River catchment in the Northern Territory, specifically the region surrounding Beswick Bridge. Additionally, a Flood Watch remains in effect for parts of the Bonaparte, North West Coastal, and Carpentaria Coastal River catchments.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected area are advised to take the following 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 ahead to avoid flooded roads.
• 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.

Expected Conditions

As of 12:15 pm ACST on Thursday, the Waterhouse River at Beswick Bridge was recorded at 6.30 meters and steady, which is currently below the minor flood level. However, continued rainfall associated with a monsoon trough is expected to cause further rises.

Forecasted levels include:

• Minor Flood Level (7.70 m): Expected to be exceeded overnight Thursday into Friday.
• Moderate Flood Level (8.10 m): Expected to be reached early Friday morning.
• Downstream Observations: The Waterhouse River at Diljin Hill was recorded at 2.31 meters and steady as of 6:00 am Thursday.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 12:48 pm ACST on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Moderate flooding is anticipated to begin early Friday morning, March 6. The Bureau of Meteorology will closely monitor the situation and expects to issue the next update by 2:00 pm ACST on Friday, March 6, 2026.