Moderate Flood Warning Issued for Western and Diamantina Rivers in Queensland

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Moderate Flood Warning for the Western River and a Flood Warning for the Diamantina River (Alert ID: IDQ20865). This warning was issued at 11:19 am AEST on Friday, February 20, 2026, and is currently in effect.

Affected Areas

The following geographic regions and river points are impacted:

• Western River: Winton and surrounding areas.
• Diamantina River: Diamantina Lakes, Birdsville, Roseberth, Monkira, and Elderslie.
• Key Infrastructure: Springvale Diamantina Lakes Road Causeway.

Expected Conditions

• Western River at Winton: Moderate flooding is occurring. The river was recorded at 2.35 meters and steady as of 8:55 am Thursday, remaining above the moderate flood level of 2.00 meters. It is expected to stay above this level for the remainder of Friday.
• Diamantina River at Diamantina Lakes: The river is currently at 4.30 meters and rising, which is above the moderate flood level of 4.00 meters and the Springvale Diamantina Lakes Road Causeway (2.10 meters).
• Diamantina River at Birdsville: The river is currently at 3.55 meters and steady, which is below the minor flood level of 4.00 meters. However, renewed rises are possible next week as upstream flows arrive.
• Additional Hazards: Showers and storms are possible over parts of the catchment for the next few days, which may cause further river level rises.

Timeline

• Current Status: Moderate flooding is occurring at Winton and Diamantina Lakes. Minor flooding is easing at Roseberth.
• Duration: Winton is expected to remain in moderate flood through Friday. Upstream flows are expected to reach downstream locations, including Birdsville, starting next week.
• Next Update: The Bureau of Meteorology will issue the next update by 12:00 PM AEST on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are advised to take the following precautions:

• Safety First: Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater. It is dangerous and conditions can change quickly.
• Stay Clear: Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Road Safety: Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded roads.
• Stay Informed: Monitor the ABC and local media for updates. Visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings for local emergency management advice.
• Emergency Assistance: For assistance, call the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.