Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of North West and Channel Country Forecast Districts.

Issued at 10:53 am Sunday, 22 February 2026.

Heavy rainfall and possible damaging wind gusts over far western Queensland today and into Monday.

Weather Situation: A tropical low is located over the southeastern Northern Territory. It is expected to move slowly southward and strengthen during today. Rich tropical moisture feeding into the system brings the risk of heavy rainfall today and into Monday.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast for parts of the North West and Channel Country. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 50 and 80 mm are possible. 24-hourly rainfall totals between 60 and 80 mm are likely, with localised falls of 110 mm possible.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of about 90 km/h are possible with showers and thunderstorms.

Severe weather is likely to contract to only affect far southwestern Queensland by Monday afternoon, but there remains some uncertainty around the position and strength of the system. The low may linger and affect the western Channel Country for most of the week.

These conditions also threaten cattle and other livestock.

Separate Flood Watches and/or Warnings are current at the time of issue. Please refer to https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts/ for more information.

Locations which may be affected include Birdsville, Urandangi, Ballera, Orientos, Glenormiston and Bulloo Downs.

Emergency services advise people to:
* Park your car undercover away from trees.
* Close doors and windows.
* Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
* Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.
* Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.
* Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
* Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.
* Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.