Coastal Hazard Warning Issued for Carpentaria District Due to Abnormally High Tides

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Coastal Hazard Warning for abnormally high tides. This top-priority alert was issued at 3:33 pm ACST on Saturday, 21 March 2026, for the Carpentaria forecast district.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers parts of the Carpentaria district, with a focus on the southwestern Gulf of Carpentaria. Specific locations identified as being at risk for sea water flooding include King Ash Bay and Bing Bong Port.

What You Should Do

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

• Flood Protection: Be aware that abnormally high tides could cause minor coastal flooding. Residents can create improvised sandbags using pillowcases or shopping bags filled with sand to place around doorways.
• Safety Near Water: Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Animal Welfare: Ensure all pets and livestock are in a safe location.
• Emergency Preparedness: Prepare for potential power outages by assembling an emergency kit containing a radio, torch, spare batteries, and a first aid kit.
• Emergency Assistance: For help during floods, storms, or cyclones, contact the NTES at 132 500.

Expected Conditions

Elevated sea levels are being driven by Tropical Cyclone Narelle as it moves westwards over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Tides are expected to rise significantly above the normal high tide mark, which may lead to the flooding of low-lying coastal areas.

Timeline

The warning is currently in effect, with the most significant impacts expected during Sunday’s high tides. The Bureau of Meteorology will issue the next update by 11:00 pm ACST on Saturday.