Severe Weather Warning Issued for Barkly, Simpson, and Tanami Districts in Northern Territory

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Weather Warning (IDD21037) for heavy, locally intense rainfall and damaging winds. The alert is currently at a “High” severity level as a tropical low situated near the Simpson, Barkly, and Queensland border region moves slowly southward and strengthens.

Affected Areas

The warning primarily affects the Barkly district and portions of the Simpson and Tanami districts in the Northern Territory. Specific locations that may be impacted include Tennant Creek and Ali Curung.

Expected Conditions

A tropical low is feeding on rich tropical moisture, bringing a broad chance of heavy to locally intense rainfall, particularly on the northern and eastern sides of the system.

• Rainfall: Six-hourly totals are expected between 55 and 90 mm, with localized falls reaching up to 140 mm. Over a 24-hour period, totals between 100 and 150 mm are likely, with localized peaks of 200 mm.
• Flash Flooding: The intense rainfall may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.
• Winds: Damaging wind gusts of approximately 90 km/h are possible near showers and thunderstorms.
• Livestock: These conditions pose a significant threat to cattle and other livestock in the region.

What You Should Do

The Northern Territory Emergency Service (NTES) advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Secure loose outside objects and seek shelter as conditions deteriorate.
• If driving in heavy rain, pull over and park with hazard lights on until visibility improves.
• Do not drive into water of unknown depth or current.
• Use pillowcases or shopping bags filled with sand to create sandbags for doorway protection if flooding occurs.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Ensure the safety of pets and livestock.
• Prepare for potential power outages with an emergency kit containing a radio, torch, spare batteries, and a first aid kit.
• For emergency assistance in floods or storms, contact the NTES at 132 500.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 10:06 am ACST on Saturday, 21 February 2026. The tropical low is expected to strengthen as it moves south throughout the weekend, with the greatest chance of intense rainfall occurring during overnight hours. The next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled for 5:00 pm ACST Saturday.