Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 12:46 pm AEST on Thursday 1 January 2026 Flood Watch Number: 11

FURTHER FLOODING POSSIBLE IN PARTS OF CENTRAL WEST AND NORTH EAST QUEENSLAND

A trough will linger over northern Queensland for several days, producing isolated heavy rainfall. Over the northeast coast between Cairns and Mackay, onshore winds will continue to converge for several days, producing heavy rainfall.

Elevated river levels and areas of flooding are occurring across many catchments in north Queensland. Moderate to heavy rainfall over the next few days is likely to cause continued and dangerous river level rises across the Flood Watch area, as well as localised flooding. Road closures and community isolation are occurring in some areas, with additional areas likely to be affected over the next few days.

Catchments are wet following recent rainfall and will respond quickly to further rainfall.

A Severe Weather Warning for Heavy Rainfall is current for parts of the Herbert and Lower Burdekin Forecast Districts.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Daintree River

Mossman River

Barron River

Mulgrave and Russell Rivers

Johnstone River

Tully River

Black River (Including Bluewater Creek)

Ross and Bohle Rivers

Haughton River

Belyando and Suttor Rivers to Burdekin Falls Dam

Cape River to Burdekin Falls Dam

Burdekin River to Burdekin Falls Dam

Burdekin River downstream of Burdekin Falls Dam

Don and Proserpine Rivers

Thomson River (Rainfall expected mainly in upper catchment)

Flood warnings are current for the following catchment(s): Murray, Herbert, Bohle and Stuart Creek, Nicholson, Leichhardt, Upper Flinders, Lower Flinders, Cloncurry, Norman, Gilbert, Georgina, Diamantina, Western, and Bremer rivers.

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.disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings.

For emergency assistance call SES on telephone number 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.



Rainfall and River Conditions Map