Major Flood Warning Issued for Thomson River and Cooper Creek in Central Queensland

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDQ20860) for the Thomson River and Cooper Creek. Additionally, a Moderate Flood Warning is in effect for the Alice and Barcoo Rivers. This is flood warning number 76 for this system.

Affected Areas

The warning covers several river systems and communities in Queensland, including:

• Thomson River: Longreach, Camoola Park, Jundah, and Stonehenge.
• Cooper Creek: Windorah.
• Barcoo River: Isisford, Retreat, and areas downstream of Isisford.
• Alice River: Barcaldine.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected regions are advised that the situation is being actively monitored. Forecasts will be refined as upstream peaks are observed. Residents should stay informed and monitor local conditions as this warning will be updated as required by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Expected Conditions

• Thomson River at Longreach: Currently at 6.12 meters and rising. A significant major flood peak of approximately 6.50 meters is expected. This level is above the new bridge (6.35 meters) but below the February 2000 flood level of 6.95 meters.
• Cooper Creek at Windorah: The creek level is easing slowly but is expected to remain around the major flood level for the next few days.
• Thomson River at Stonehenge: Currently at 2.67 meters (minor flooding). Renewed rises are expected Tuesday, with major flooding likely later in the week as upstream flows arrive.
• Barcoo River at Isisford: Moderate flooding is likely to develop from mid-week, with higher levels possible.
• Alice River at Barcaldine: Moderate flooding is currently easing.
• Thomson River at Camoola Park: Peaked at 6.60 meters Saturday morning; currently at 6.35 meters and falling with moderate flooding.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 10:22 am AEST on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The peak at Longreach is most likely to occur during Sunday afternoon or evening, with small rises possible into early Monday. Renewed river level rises in downstream areas like Stonehenge are expected starting Tuesday, March 17. The current warning remains active until at least March 18, 2026.