Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Channel Country Forecast District.

Issued at 10:10 am Tuesday, 24 February 2026.

Heavy rainfall over far southwestern Queensland.

Weather Situation: A slow-moving tropical low is located over the southeast of the Northern Territory and is moving slowly to the south. Rich tropical moisture surrounding this system brings the risk of heavy rainfall with showers and thunderstorms.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast today for parts of the Channel Country from this afternoon. Six hour rainfall totals between 50 and 80 mm are possible.

There remains some uncertainty around the position and strength of the tropical low, which may linger and affect the western Channel Country bringing periods of heavy rainfall 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, Ballera, Orientos, Mt Howitt Station, Bulloo Downs and Nappa Merrie.

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.