Severe Weather Warning: Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flooding Issued for Queensland's Channel Country

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Weather Warning (IDQ21037) for heavy rainfall. This high-priority alert was issued at 10:10 am AEST on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, for residents in parts of the Channel Country Forecast District.

Affected Areas

The warning covers far southwestern Queensland. Specific locations that may be affected include:

• Birdsville
• Ballera
• Orientos
• Mt Howitt Station
• Bulloo Downs
• Nappa Merrie

What You Should Do

Emergency services advise residents in the warning area to take the following precautions:

• Park vehicles undercover and away from trees.
• Close all doors and windows.
• Keep asthma medications close by, as storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
• Charge mobile phones and power banks in case of power outages.
• Ensure pets are in a safe place and properly identified.
• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary due to dangerous conditions.
• Seek shelter inside a strong building and remain there until the storm passes.
• Notify friends, family, and neighbors in the area.

Expected Conditions

A slow-moving tropical low located over the southeast Northern Territory is moving south, bringing rich tropical moisture to the region. Heavy rainfall which may lead to flash flooding is forecast to begin this afternoon. Six-hour rainfall totals between 50 mm and 80 mm are possible.

The Bureau notes uncertainty regarding the exact position of the tropical low, which may linger and bring periods of heavy rainfall to the western Channel Country for most of the week. These conditions also pose a threat to cattle and other livestock. Separate flood watches or warnings may also be current for the region.

Timeline

The warning is effective immediately, with heavy rain expected to develop from Tuesday afternoon. The next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 5:00 pm AEST on Tuesday.