Minor Flood Warning Issued for Barron River at Kamerunga Bridge and Downstream Areas

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an Initial Minor Flood Warning (IDQ20710) for the Barron River. The alert was issued at 8:10 am AEST on Sunday, 15 March 2026, following moderate to heavy rainfall in the catchment area since Friday.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the Barron River at Kamerunga Bridge and areas downstream of Barron Falls. Minor flooding is currently occurring at Mareeba, Bilwon, and Myola. Other monitored locations include Tinaroo Dam, Flaggy Creek, Freshwater Creek at Copperlode Dam, and the Barron River at Cairns Airport.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised not to 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. For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately. Monitor the ABC and local media for further updates.

Expected Conditions

As of 7:53 am Sunday, the Barron River at Kamerunga Bridge was recorded at 4.11 m AHD and rising. It is forecast to reach the minor flood level of 5.00 m AHD early Sunday afternoon. Current river heights include:

• Mareeba: 5.17 m (Rising)
• Bilwon: 5.99 m (Rising)
• Myola: 5.08 m (Rising)
• Cairns Airport: 1.71 m (Rising)

Further showers are forecast for the next few days, which may impact river levels.

Timeline

The alert is effective immediately. Minor flooding is likely at Kamerunga Bridge during the early afternoon of Sunday, 15 March 2026. The Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 3:00 PM AEST on Sunday.