Major Flood Warning Issued for Upper Balonne River; 10.50m Peak Forecast for Surat

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDQ20831) for the Upper Balonne River. This update, issued at 11:54 am AEST on Saturday, March 14, 2026, indicates that major flooding is currently occurring in several locations along the river system.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically affects the following geographic regions in Queensland:

• Balonne River at Surat, Warkon, and Warroo
• Balonne River downstream of Surat to Beardmore Dam
• Dogwood Creek
• Balonne River to Surat

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are urged to prioritize safety. Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as conditions are dangerous. Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways. Obey all road closure signs and plan travel ahead of time to avoid flooded roads. For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. Monitor local media and visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings for local management advice.

Expected Conditions

• Balonne River at Warkon: Currently peaking at 10.82 meters, well above the major flood level of 9.00 meters. The river is expected to remain above the major flood level for the next few days.
• Balonne River at Surat: The river is estimated to be above the major flood level (9.00 meters) and rising. A major flood peak near 10.50 meters is possible overnight Sunday into Monday.
• Balonne River at Warroo: Currently at 6.34 meters and rising. It is expected to exceed the minor flood level (9.00 meters) into next week.
• Dogwood Creek: Minor flooding is currently easing at Pine Hill Crossing.

No significant rainfall is forecast for the region over the next few days, which may assist in the gradual easing of levels once peaks have passed.

Timeline

The warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to expire at 4:54 am AEST on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. The peak at Surat is expected overnight Sunday into Monday. The Bureau of Meteorology will issue the next update by 1:00 pm AEST on Sunday, March 15, 2026.