Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Initial Flood Watch for the River Derwent, Northern and North East catchments, and parts of Western Tasmania

Issued at 12:45 pm AEDT on Tuesday 21 October 2025

Flood Watch Number: 1

MINOR FLOODING LIKELY ACROSS THE FLOOD WATCH AREA FROM LATE WEDNESDAY, ISOLATED MODERATE FLOODING POSSIBLE FROM THURSDAY

A broad area of low pressure over the southern mainland is forecast to move over Tasmania during Wednesday, bringing widespread showers and areas of rain. Widespread moderate rainfall totals are forecast over the north of the state, with isolated higher falls, most likely over higher ground.

Catchments across Tasmania are wet following recent rainfall, and catchments are likely to react relatively quickly to further rainfall.

River level rises are expected across the Flood Watch area, with minor flooding likely from late Wednesday. Isolated moderate flooding is possible from Thursday in the North Esk, South Esk and Macquarie catchments.

Localised flooding of rivulets, small creeks and low-lying areas may occur in locations that receive higher rainfall. Isolated heavy rainfall can result in rapid stream rises and strong flows particularly in the west and north east of the state.

Catchments likely to be affected include:
East Coastal Rivers (north of Bicheno)

Derwent River

Pieman River

Nelson Bay Coastal Rivers

Arthur River

Northwest and Central Coastal Rivers

Forth River

Mersey River

Meander River

Macquarie River

South Esk River

North Esk River

Tamar (Launceston)

Ringarooma River

North Coastal Rivers

For the latest flood and weather warnings see http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

For the latest rainfall and river level information see http://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.alert.tas.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