Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Flood Watch for parts of north-eastern and central South Australia
Issued at 12:46 pm ACDT on Monday 23 February 2026

Flood Watch Number: 4

FLOODING OCCURRING IN PARTS OF NORTH-EASTERN AND CENTRAL CATCHMENTS

FURTHER FLOODING EXPECTED OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS

A slow moving low pressure system over the southern Northern Territory interacting with a trough is forecast to produce widespread moderate to heavy rainfall, with locally intense falls, across the Flood Watch area over the next few days.

The highest rainfall totals are forecast over the North East Pastoral district, however showers, thunderstorms and rainfall are forecast to extend southwards late in the week and over the weekend. Accumulated rainfall totals 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, affecting larger parts of the Flood Watch area. Many outback roads are currently impacted by flooding, leading to the isolation of some communities. Check road conditions before travelling. The east-west railway line is closed to the north-west of Port Augusta.

Flood Watches are current for adjacent parts of the southern Northern Territory and far north west of New South Wales, and a Severe Weather Warning for heavy, locally intense rainfall is current for the North East Pastoral District.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Flinders Ranges Rivers and Creeks

North West Lake Torrens

Warburton River

Cooper Creek

Lake Eyre

Lake Frome

Finke River and Stephenson Creek

Simpson Desert

Lake Gairdner

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.ses.sa.gov.au/incidents-and-warnings/incidents-and-warnings-map/.
For emergency assistance call SES on telephone number 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.

Rainfall and River Conditions Map