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Flood warnings

Go to the Bureau of Meteorology website for all warnings about floods or severe storms and cyclones that may cause flooding.

Warnings will also be broadcast on local radio,  TV and SecureNT Facebook.

The latest road conditions are available at roadreport.nt.gov.au

You also need to be aware of the new warning system for emergencies in Australia.

Check current Alerts and warnings

Types of flood warnings

There are three warning levels. Find out how to prepare at each level.

  • An incident has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay up to date in case the situation changes.

    • Prepare your home  and business
    • make sure you have a stocked emergency kit and an emergency plan.
    • listen to your local radio for updates, follow SecureNT on social media and online.
    • monitor conditions, river rises can happen suddenly.
    • check that your neighbours know about the advice
    • move outdoor equipment, rubbish, chemicals and poisons to a high place
    • check your car and fill it with fuel
    • block toilets and floor drains from inside the home to stop sewage backing up
    • stack furniture and possessions above the likely flood level, for example on beds or in the roof - put electrical items on top
    • secure objects that could float and cause damage

    An advice may also be issued after the main threat has passed.

  • There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family.

    At this stage, you should:

    • have your emergency kits finalised
    • be prepared to evacuate or move to an emergency shelter if instructed
    • be making your final preparations to ensure your property is as secure as possible
    • ensure animals and/or pets are in a safe location.

    If you plan to self-evacuate, now is the time to do so.

    Authorities may issue evacuation orders during the Watch and Act period to remove residents to a safe location ahead of any anticipated impact.

  • An emergency warning is the highest level of warning. You may be in danger and need to take action immediately. Any delay now puts your life at risk.

    At this stage you may be advised to:

    • Evacuate by a certain time
    • Move to high ground
    • Shelter indoors now

    Follow all instructions without delay. It may be too dangerous to leave.


Flood warnings will be classed as one of the following.

Minor flooding

Minor flooding causes inconvenience.

Minor roads and low-level bridges may be closed.

In urban areas flooding may affect some backyards and building structures below the ground-floor level as well as bicycle and pedestrian paths.

In rural areas you may need to remove stock and equipment.

Moderate flooding

Flooding is more substantial.

Main traffic routes may be affected.

Some buildings may be flooded above floor level.

You may need to evacuate flooded areas.

Stock must be removed from rural areas.

Major flooding

Flooding is extensive and includes major rural and/or urban areas.

Many buildings may be flooded above the floor level.

Properties and towns are likely to be isolated.

Major rail and traffic routes will be closed.

You may need to evacuate flooded areas.

You may not have utility services such as power and sewerage.

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