Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 12:45 pm ACDT on Friday 20 February 2026 Flood Watch Number: 1

FLOODING LIKELY IN PARTS OF THE NORTH-EASTERN AND CENTRAL CATCHMENTS FROM SUNDAY

A trough over northern South Australia, connected to a deepening tropical low over the south of the Northern Territory, will combine with a very humid and unstable airmass to produce widespread heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over the north of the state from Sunday through to at least mid-next week.

The risk of local heavy falls will develop from Sunday for much of the state ahead of a front extending across the south. From Monday the focus of the heavy falls and flooding is likely to be over the Pastoral districts closer to the low.

River and creek level rises, localised flooding, and overland inundation are likely in parts of the Flood Watch area from Sunday. This may affect road access, and some communities may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Flinders Ranges Rivers and Creeks

North West Lake Torrens

Warburton River

Cooper Creek

Lake Eyre

Lake Frome

Finke River and Stephenson Creek

Simpson Desert

Lake Gairdner

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.ses.sa.gov.au/incidents-and-warnings/incidents-and-warnings-map/.


Rainfall and River Conditions Map