ALICE SPRINGS, 23 February 2026 – Severe weather and torrential rainfall have triggered widespread flooding across Central Australia and the Barkly region today, forcing the closure of major arterial roads and isolating remote cattle stations. Authorities have issued “Watch and Act” warnings as the Stuart Highway—the primary road link between Darwin and Adelaide—remains cut in several locations due to rising waters.
Emergency Warnings and Road Closures
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued urgent alerts for residents in the Central Desert and Barkly regions to “take action now” as damaging winds of up to 100 km/h and intense rainfall continue to lash the interior. In Alice Springs, residents have been urged to prepare for flash flooding as tropical moisture moves south through the Northern Territory.
Key impacts reported as of Monday morning include:
- Stuart Highway: Significant inundation has closed sections of the highway, halting freight and passenger travel between the north and south of the continent.
- Barkly Region: Dozens of local roads are impassable, with several cattle stations reporting total isolation.
- Silver City Highway: Flooding is also impacting the Upper Western region of New South Wales, with motorists advised to check entire routes before travel.
- Interstate Impacts: Flood watches are currently active for the Finke River and Simpson Desert in South Australia, as well as parts of Gippsland and North East Victoria as the system moves southeast.
Climate Context: Rainfall in Central Australia
While Central Australia is typically an arid environment, the current event represents a significant departure from seasonal averages. The region generally receives less than 250 mm of rainfall annually, often characterized by long periods of drought interrupted by intense, large-scale weather systems.
| Feature | Description / Statistic |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Rainfall | Less than 250 mm (approx. 10 inches) |
| Highest Recorded Temp (NT) | 48.3 °C |
| Primary Climate Drivers | Tropical moisture incursions, ex-tropical cyclones, and monsoon troughs |
| Historical Data Period | 1991–2020 (Current Climatology) |
Community Impact and Safety Advice
Emergency services have responded to multiple calls for assistance over the past 72 hours. In the Barkly region, the inundation of stations has raised concerns for livestock safety and supply chains. Residents in low-lying areas of Alice Springs are being monitored as riverine flood watches remain in effect for the Central Desert.
The Northern Territory Emergency Service (NTES) advises the following:
- Never drive, walk, or ride through floodwaters.
- Stay indoors during severe thunderstorms and keep clear of windows.
- Ensure emergency kits are stocked with essential supplies, including batteries and clean water.
- Monitor the Bureau of Meteorology for updated Flood Watches, with the next major update expected by Tuesday afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Stuart Highway currently open?
No, as of 23 February 2026, several sections of the Stuart Highway between Darwin and Adelaide are closed due to flooding. Travellers are advised to check the NT Road Report website for real-time updates.
What caused this sudden flooding in the desert?
The flooding is driven by a significant surge of tropical moisture extending into the Australian interior, creating unstable conditions and heavy rainfall totals that far exceed the monthly averages for February.
How long is the severe weather expected to last?
Current forecasts suggest the moisture will continue to track southeast, with heavy rain and thunderstorms likely to impact Victoria and parts of New South Wales through Tuesday, 24 February.