Flood Watch Issued for South Eastern Northern Territory and Simpson Desert Catchments

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued Flood Watch Number 12 for parts of the South Eastern inland areas of the Northern Territory and adjacent regions in Queensland. This alert, issued at 11:54 am ACST on Sunday, March 1, 2026, serves as early advice for possible flooding within specified catchments.

Affected Areas

The following catchments and regions are expected to be impacted:

• Georgina River and Eyre Creek
• Finke River and Stephenson Creek
• Simpson Desert
• Central Desert
• MacDonnell Ranges (specifically eastern areas)
• Barkly (where flood impacts persist, though the risk of heaviest falls has eased)

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the warning area are advised to take the following safety precautions:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater, as it is dangerous and conditions can change rapidly.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel ahead to avoid flooded routes.
• Monitor local media and the ABC for updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

A low pressure system currently situated over the southern Simpson District is moving into South Australia. High tropical moisture associated with this system continues to bring a risk of heavy rainfall. Significant rainfall has already been recorded over the last few days, leading to river level rises and localized flooding. Further flooding is expected over the next few days, particularly in the Simpson Desert and parts of the Georgina and Eyre Creek. Catchments are currently wet and will respond quickly to additional rain. Many roads are already impacted, leading to the isolation of some communities and potential risks to livestock welfare.

Timeline

The flood watch is currently in effect, with further flooding anticipated over the next few days. The situation is being monitored closely, and the next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 1:30 PM ACST on Monday, March 2, 2026.