Moderate Flood Warning Issued for Adelaide River Town as Tropical Cyclone Narelle Approaches

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an Initial Moderate Flood Warning (IDD20535) for the Adelaide River. This warning is part of a major warning group type as Tropical Cyclone Narelle is forecast to bring widespread heavy to locally intense rainfall to parts of the Top End.

Affected Areas

The primary areas affected include the Adelaide River at Adelaide River Town and the Upper Adelaide River region in the Northern Territory. Specific monitoring is occurring at the Adelaide River East Branch at Daly Road and the Adelaide River West Branch downstream of Redbank Creek.

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 emergencies, call 000 immediately. Monitor the ABC and local media for updates.

Expected Conditions

Tropical Cyclone Narelle is expected to cause rapid river level rises. While the Adelaide River at Adelaide River Town was recorded at 3.94 meters and falling as of Saturday morning, it is forecast to rise significantly. The river may exceed the minor flood level of 11.50 meters and is expected to potentially exceed the moderate flood level of 11.90 meters. Further rises are possible depending on the intensity of the forecast rainfall.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 10:25 am ACST on Saturday, March 21, 2026. River levels are expected to exceed minor flood levels overnight Sunday into Monday, with moderate flooding possible starting early Monday morning. The situation will be monitored closely, and the next update is scheduled for 12:00 PM ACST on Sunday, March 22, 2026.