Major Flood Warning Issued for Upper Balonne River at Warkon and Surat

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Major Flood Warning (IDQ20831) for the Upper Balonne River. This is the seventh flood warning issued for this event, following recent heavy rainfall across the catchment area.

Affected Areas

The warning covers several locations along the Balonne River and its tributaries in Queensland, including:

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

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 waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded roads.
• Monitor the ABC and local media for updates as the situation can change quickly.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.
• Visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings for local emergency management advice.

Expected Conditions

Major flooding is currently occurring at Warkon and Surat.

• Balonne River at Warkon: Currently at 10.72 meters and rising. It is expected to reach approximately 11.00 meters by Saturday morning with major flooding.
• Balonne River at Surat: Estimated to be above the major flood level of 9.0 meters and rising. Levels may exceed 10.00 meters during Monday.
• Balonne River at Warroo: Currently at 5.00 meters and rising. It may exceed the minor flood level of 9.00 meters into next week.
• Dogwood Creek: Moderate flooding is currently easing at Pine Hill Crossing.

No significant rainfall is forecast for the region over the next few days.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 12:55 pm AEST on Friday, March 13, 2026. Major flooding is expected to continue through the weekend, with peaks at Surat possible around Monday. The next official update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 1:00 pm AEST on Saturday, March 14, 2026.