Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 12:30 pm ACST on Tuesday 17 March 2026

Flood Watch Number: 21

FLOODING OCCURRING IN PARTS OF FLOOD WATCH AREA WITH FURTHER FLOODING POSSIBLE

A trough of low pressure is located over southern Northern Territory, assisted by an inflow of humid tropical air will combine to generate widespread moderate to heavy rainfall to Central, Western and Eastern Inland areas over the remainder of today and tomorrow morning.

Catchments in the Flood Watch area are wet from recent rainfall. Forecast rainfall may cause further significant water level rises in rivers and creeks, as well as prolonged overland flooding and ponding.

Roads may become impassable. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling.

Catchments likely to be affected include:
Finke River and Stephenson Creek

MacDonnell Ranges

Simpson Desert

Sturt Creek District

Western Desert

Central Desert

Tanami Desert

Flood Warnings are current for the Daly River, Victoria River, Katherine River and Waterhouse River.

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.securent.nt.gov.au.

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

Rainfall and River Conditions Map