Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 1:10 pm AEST on Saturday 21 February 2026 Flood Watch Number: 13

FLOODING LIKELY TO CONTINUE OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS

A trough will linger across northern Queensland for several days, gradually contracting to Far North Queensland during the weekend. Moderate to locally heavy falls are possible, with the highest totals are likely close to the coast and ranges. A weak tropical low (26U) lies within the trough and will linger near Northern Territory far western Queensland border before shifting southward later this weekend and early next week.

Catchments are relatively wet to very wet after recent rainfall, with river level rises and further areas of flooding likely over the next few days.

Rapid river level rises and flash flooding are possible in areas that receive the heaviest rainfall. Road closures and community isolation are occurring in some areas, with additional areas likely to be affected over the next few days.

The situation will be monitored closely and Flood Warnings will be issued as required.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Nicholson River

Leichhardt River

Lower Flinders River (Flood Warning current)

Gilbert River

Staaten River

Mitchell River (Including Magnificent Creek at Kowanyama)

Flood Warnings are current for the following catchment(s): Herbert, Belyando and Suttor to Burdekin Falls Dam, Cape to Burdekin Falls Dam, Burdekin to Burdekin Falls Dam, Burdekin downstream of Burdekin Falls Dam, Connors, Isaac and Styx and Plane, Dawson and Don, Upper Flinders, Lower Flinders, Cloncurry, Norman, Georgina and Eyre, Diamantina, Thomson, Barcoo, Cooper and Bulloo

Further flooding is no longer expected in the following catchment(s): Mulgrave and Russell, Tully, Murray, Black, Ross and Bohle and Pioneer

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