Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 1:35 pm AEST on Tuesday 17 February 2026

Flood Watch Number: 9

FLOODING LIKELY TO BECOME MORE WIDESPREAD OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS

A broad trough system will linger over northern Queensland for several days, maintaining deep tropical moisture and enhancing shower and storm activity. Moderate to locally heavy falls are possible, with the highest totals likely close to the coast and ranges.

Catchments are relatively wet to very wet after recent rainfall, with river level rises and areas of flooding likely to become more widespread over the next few days. The Flood Watch has been expanded to include additional catchments across the Gulf Country and parts of the Cape York Peninsula, as well as the lower Burdekin and Connors-Isaac catchments.

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:
Mulgrave and Russell Rivers

Tully River

Murray River

Black River

Ross and Bohle Rivers

Haughton River

Belyando and Suttor Rivers to Burdekin Falls Dam

Burdekin River to Burdekin Falls Dam

Burdekin River downstream of Burdekin Falls Dam

Connors, Isaac and Styx Rivers and Plane Creek

Nicholson River

Leichhardt River

Lower Flinders River

Cloncurry River

Gilbert River

Staaten River

Mitchell River
(Including Magnificent Creek at Kowanyama)

Flood warnings are current for numerous catchments across the state, including the Cape River to Burdekin Falls Dam, which has been removed from this Flood Watch.

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