Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 11:24 am AEST on Tuesday 23 December 2025 Flood Watch Number: 1

FLOODING POSSIBLE IN PARTS OF NORTH-WESTERN QUEENSLAND FROM WEDNESDAY

A trough across the north-west is expected to develop into a monsoon trough from Wednesday and persist for much of the week, bringing widespread showers, rain, and thunderstorms. The trough will extend across central and far northern Queensland later this week, potentially extending heavy rainfall to eastern Queensland.

Catchments are gradually becoming wet following recent rainfall. Widespread moderate and isolated heavy rainfall is possible during this week. The focus of the heaviest rainfall will depend on the location of the trough.

River and creek level rises, overland flow, and isolated flooding in low-lying areas are possible across many inland parts of the Flood Watch area. Riverine flooding is possible from Wednesday with road closures and community isolation likely.

Flood impacts in the far south-west of the state (lower Georgina River and Eyre Creek catchments, lower Diamantina River catchment) are not expected in the short term, but are possible over the next week or two as floodwaters travel downstream.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Settlement Creek

Nicholson River

Leichhardt River

Upper Flinders River

Lower Flinders River

Cloncurry River

Georgina River and Eyre Creek (rainfall expected mainly in upper catchment)

Diamantina River (rainfall expected mainly in upper catchment)

A Flood Watch is current for parts of the Barkly and Carpentaria Coastal Rivers in the Northern Territory, adjacent to the Queensland Flood Watch area.

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