Flood Warning Issued for Culgoa, Birrie, Bokhara, and Narran Rivers in New South Wales

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an initial Minor Flood Warning for the Culgoa, Birrie, and Bokhara Rivers, alongside a Moderate Flood Warning for the Narran River. This alert was issued at 11:16 am AEDT on Friday, March 20, 2026, as floodwaters from the Lower Balonne River move downstream.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following geographic regions and river stations in New South Wales:

• Culgoa River: Specifically at Brenda.
• Birrie River: Specifically at Goodooga.
• Bokhara River: Specifically at Goodooga.
• Narran River: Specifically at New Angledool No 2.

Expected Conditions

Floodwaters currently approaching St George are expected to cause significant river level rises. Specific projections include:

• Narran River (New Angledool No 2): Expected to exceed the minor flood level (3.30 m) by March 26-27 and reach the moderate flood level (3.50 m) by March 28-29.
• Culgoa River (Brenda): Expected to reach approximately 4.90 m (minor flooding) by March 30-31.
• Birrie River (Goodooga): Expected to exceed the minor flood level (3.20 m) by March 28-29.
• Bokhara River (Goodooga): Expected to exceed the minor flood level (2.70 m) by March 28-29.

Further rises are possible as upstream flows arrive, and predictions will be refined as peaks are observed.

Timeline

River levels are expected to begin rising during the week of March 23 to March 29. Flooding is forecast to develop toward the end of March and continue into early April. The current alert remains active with an expiry time set for March 23, 2026, though conditions will be monitored as the flood peak moves through the system.

What You Should Do

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

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater, as it is dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and all waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded routes.
• Monitor local media and the ABC for updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the NSW SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.
• Visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au for local emergency management advice.