ADVICE - RETURN NOW WITH CAUTION

Published on 17 March 2026

Issued: 12:30pm Tuesday 17 March 2026

Next update: 12:30pm Wednesday 18 March 2026 or as the situation changes.

 

Longreach Regional Council advises people in Longreach and surrounding areas to RETURN WITH CAUTION from major flooding on the Thomson River. You should take care when returning to the area as flood impacts can be widespread.

 

Floodwater has peaked and is continuing to fall slowly. The river is likely to remain above the major flood level (5.30 m) until at least mid-week. Avoid sightseeing in flooded areas. Floodwater can be dangerous. Please do not enter floodwater or allow children to play in floodwater.

 

What we are expecting:

The Thomson River at Longreach peaked at 6.16 m during Sunday evening, below the level of the new bridge (6.35 m). The Thomson River at Longreach is currently falling slowly. The river is likely to remain above the major flood level (5.30 m) until at least mid-week.

  • The Cramsie-Muttaburra Road remains cut at Sandy Creek. An alternative access to the Landsborough Highway for residents of the Cramsie, Sandalwood, Coolibah, and Acacia estates, has been established via Longway. Monitor conditions closely and avoid unnecessary travel.
  • The Thomson Developmental Road to Jundah is open (with restrictions) at Watyakan Creek.
  • The Landsborough Highway to Winton is open.

 

What you need to do:

  • Floodwater can be dangerous. Please do not enter floodwater or allow children to play in floodwater.
  • You may come into contact with snakes in places you don’t expect. Watch where you step.
  • Native wildlife that have been displaced may behave erratically. Do not approach wild animals.
  • Stay away from creeks, rivers, and drains.
  • Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time.
  • Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in flood water. If it’s flooded, forget it.
  • Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.
  • Check in on your neighbours, animals, and livestock if safe to do so.
  • Stay away from impacted areas unless you live or work there, or you are helping.
  • Protect your health and safety; wear boots, gloves and protective clothing when cleaning up, wash your hands and clothes often, throw away perishable food that has not been kept cold or frozen.
  • The number of mosquitos and sandflies can grow after a flood. Protect your health and safety by using repellent, wear closed in shoes, long sleeves and pants, and empty containers that have water in them.

 

If your home or business has been impacted:

  • Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.
  • If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.
  • Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.
  • Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases from floodwater.
  • Protect your health and safety; wear boots, gloves and protective clothing when cleaning up, wash your hands and clothes often, throw away perishable food that has not been kept cold or frozen.
  • If safe, clean, and air out the building as soon as you can.

 

Support and recovery help:

  • Natural disasters can affect your mental health. If you need help, call any of these groups: 

 

For more information:

 

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