Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Channel Country Forecast District.

Issued at 10:37 am Monday, 23 February 2026.

Heavy rainfall and possible damaging wind gusts over far southwestern Queensland.

Weather Situation: A slow-moving tropical low is located over the southeast of the Northern Territory. Rich tropical moisture surrounding this system brings the risk of heavy rainfall.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast for parts of the Channel Country. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 50 and 80 mm are possible.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of about 90 km/h are possible with showers and thunderstorms.

There remains some uncertainty around the position and strength of the tropical low, which may linger and affect the western Channel Country for most of the week.

These conditions also threaten cattle and other livestock.

Separate Flood Watches and/or Warnings are current at the time of issue. Please refer to https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts/ for more information.

Locations which may be affected include Birdsville, Ballera, Orientos and Bulloo Downs.

Severe weather is no longer occurring in the North West district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

Emergency services advise people to:
* Park your car undercover away from trees.
* Close doors and windows.
* Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
* Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.
* Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.
* Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
* Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.
* Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.