Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall in Daly, Arnhem, and Carpentaria Districts

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning (IDD21033) for heavy rainfall. This alert is designated as a top priority for immediate broadcast for residents in the western Top End.

Affected Areas

The warning applies to parts of the Daly, Arnhem, and Carpentaria forecast districts. Specific locations that may be impacted include Nauiyu, Pine Creek, and the area of Kakadu National Park south of Cooinda.

Expected Conditions

A very humid airmass is currently triggering thunderstorms across the region. These severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding within the warning area over the next several hours.

What You Should Do

The Northern Territory Emergency Service (NTES) advises residents to take the following safety actions:

• Drive with Caution: Slow down and turn your headlights on. If it is raining heavily and you cannot see, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until the rain clears.
• Flood Protection: Create your own sandbags if flooding is imminent by using pillowcases or shopping bags filled with sand, placing them around doorways to protect your home.
• Secure Property: Secure loose outside objects and ensure pets and animals are safe.
• Seek Shelter: Avoid remaining in the open when storms threaten.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
• Emergency Contact: For emergency help in floods, storms, and cyclones, contact the NTES on 132 500.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 1:23 am Friday, 20 March 2026. Conditions are expected to persist for the next several hours. The next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 4:25 am.