Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Flood Watch for parts of the Eastern, Central and Western inland areas of the Northern Territory
Issued at 12:45 pm ACST on Monday 23 February 2026

Flood Watch Number: 6

RIVER LEVEL RISES AND AREAS OF FLOODING OCCURRING ACROSS THE FLOOD WATCH AREA

FURTHER FLOODING EXPECTED OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS

A slow-moving tropical low is situated over the southeast of the NT. Rich tropical moisture surrounding this system is bringing a broad risk of heavy to locally intense rainfall over the next few days.

Significant rainfall has been recorded across parts of the Flood Watch area over the weekend, causing river level rises and flooding. Further flooding is expected over the next few days, particularly over the Georgina and Eyre Creek, Simpson Desert and MacDonnell Ranges, where the most significant rainfall totals are forecast.

Catchments are wet across the Flood Watch area and will respond relatively quickly to further rainfall.

The accumulated rainfall over the next few days will be significant. River and creek level rises, localised flooding, and overland inundation are occurring across parts of the Flood Watch area and are likely to become more extensive. Many roads are currently impacted by flooding, causing isolation of some communities. Check road conditions before travelling. Conditions are also likely to adversely affect the welfare of livestock.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Georgina River and Eyre Creek

Finke River and Stephenson Creek

MacDonnell Ranges(for eastern areas)

Simpson Desert

Central Desert

Tanami Desert(for eastern areas)

Barkly(for southern areas)

Flood Watches are current for parts of South Australia and Queensland, including the Nicholson River, Finke River, Stephenson Creek and Simpson Desert. A Severe Weather Warning for heavy to locally intense rainfall is current for the Simpson Desert and parts of the Barkly and Tanami Desert in the Northern Territory.

For the latest flood and weather warnings see www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts

For the latest rainfall and river level information see www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood

Safety Advice:
Don't drive, walk, swim or play in floodwater because it is dangerous.
Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
Obey road closure signs. Plan ahead so you don't drive on flooded roads.
Check the ABC and local media for updates. The situation can change quickly, so stay informed.
For local emergency management warnings and advice visit www.securent.nt.gov.au.
For emergency assistance call SES on telephone number 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.

Rainfall and River Conditions Map