KATHERINE, 25 March 2026 – Exhausted Northern Territory communities are facing a renewed major flood threat just weeks after devastating inundations, with the Katherine River expected to exceed the major flood level today. The warning comes as ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle departs, having saturated already swollen catchments and dumping more than 200mm of rain across the Top End.
Current Warnings and Impacts
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a major flood warning for the Katherine River, with levels at Katherine Bridge predicted to surpass the major flood mark this afternoon. This would constitute the second major flood event for the town this month. Moderate flooding is likely at Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge), with minor flooding at Katherine Bridge expected overnight. Across the territory, flood watches and act alerts remain for the Daly, Adelaide, and Mary Rivers, where major flooding continues. Patients were pre-emptively evacuated from Katherine Hospital earlier this week as a precaution.
Historical Context and the Changing Climate
This wet season has been one of the most destructive on record, described by commentators as “five disasters in a single season.” It began with Tropical Cyclone Fina hitting the Cobourg Peninsula and Darwin in November 2025 – the earliest cyclone to make landfall on the NT in recorded history. This was followed by repeated major flooding events in the Big Rivers region, a shock flash flood in Alice Springs that saw over 100mm fall in hours, and now Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle. The succession of events has left soils saturated and infrastructure strained, with each new system causing rapid runoff and heightened flood risk.
Flood Mitigation: Plans and Challenges
In response to the escalating crisis, the Northern Territory Government announced a $100 million flood recovery and resilience fund in mid-March. However, calls for urgent, long-term mitigation are growing louder, particularly in Alice Springs where skyrocketing insurance premiums highlight the financial toll of inaction. Proposed measures include infrastructure like dams, levees, and improved culverts, alongside nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration to absorb floodwaters. A significant hurdle remains the high cost and complexity of implementing these projects in Central Australia.
Financial Support for Affected Communities
Emergency financial support has been activated for Territorians impacted by Cyclone Narelle and associated flooding. Affected households can now access Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payments of up to $8,843 per eligible household. Additionally, the National Australia Bank has activated its disaster relief programme, offering $1,000 grants to impacted customers. Residents are urged to contact the NT Emergency Services on 132 500 for assistance and to monitor SecureNT for official updates.
Historical Flood Events in Alice Springs Region
While the current emergency focuses on the Top End, Central Australia has its own profound flood risk. The Alice Springs region has experienced several major inundations in recent decades, underscoring the need for comprehensive mitigation strategies across the entire territory.
| Year | Event Description |
|---|---|
| 1984 | Major flooding event |
| 1988 | Major flooding event |
| 2000 | Major flooding event |
| February 2026 | Shock flash flooding with over 100mm of rain in hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if flooding is imminent?
Follow the advice of authorities. If you are in a flood-prone area, prepare to relocate to higher ground. Do not drive, walk, or swim in floodwaters. For emergency assistance during floods, storms, and cyclones, call the NT Emergency Services on 132 500. In a life-threatening situation, call 000.
What financial assistance is available?
Eligible households severely impacted by Cyclone Narelle and the associated flooding can apply for a one-off payment of up to $8,843. Separate state and charitable supports may also be available. Contact Services Australia or visit the SecureNT website for more information.
Why is the flooding so severe this season?
Meteorologists point to a consecutive series of extreme weather events in a short period, starting with an early cyclone season. Each event has saturated the landscape, meaning subsequent rainfall cannot be absorbed and instead runs directly into river systems, causing them to rise rapidly and exceed major flood levels.
Are saltwater crocodiles a concern during floods?
Yes. Floodwaters can displace wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles. Emergency services have issued warnings for residents to be extremely cautious around flooded areas, as crocodiles may be found in unusual locations. Always assume crocodiles are present in NT waterways.