Flood Watch Issued for North and East Kimberley Rivers as Tropical Cyclone Narelle Approaches

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an initial Flood Watch (IDW39605) for the North and East Kimberley regions. This alert serves as early advice for possible flooding within specified catchments as a severe weather system approaches Western Australia.

Affected Areas

The flood watch specifically covers the following geographic regions in Western Australia:

• North Kimberley Rivers
• East Kimberley Rivers (with flooding more likely in the northern sections)

Expected Conditions

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is forecast to bring widespread heavy to locally intense rainfall to the northeastern parts of the Kimberley. Because catchments in the region are currently wet to saturated, rivers and creeks are expected to respond rapidly to the additional precipitation. Residents should prepare for the following hazards:

• Rapid river and creek level rises
• Prolonged overland flooding and ponding
• Potential road closures and community isolation

What You Should Do

The BOM and emergency services advise the following safety precautions for residents in the affected areas:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater, as it is extremely dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel ahead to avoid flooded routes.
• Check road conditions before traveling, as some communities may become isolated.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.
• Monitor local media and visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au for updated emergency management advice.

Timeline

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is currently located in the northern Coral Sea and is expected to cross the Cape York Peninsula on Friday. The system is forecast to move across the Northern Territory over the weekend and enter Western Australia around Monday, March 23. The current flood watch was issued at 12:06 pm AWST on Thursday, March 19, 2026. The next update is scheduled to be issued by 12:00 PM AWST on Friday, March 20, 2026.