Flood threat reduced for Cairns region

Published: 17th March 2026. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

Weather advice for the Cairns region: Flooding threat reduced.

Issued: 10am, Tuesday 17 March 2026

Next Update: This will be the last advice issued

The Cairns Region Local Disaster Management Group advises people in the Cairns Regional Local Government Area:

THREAT HAS REDUCED. The flooding in the Mulgrave and Russell Rivers has eased and is below minor flood levels

Further rainfall is forecast later this week, which may cause renewed river level rises. The situation is being closely monitored, and a new warning will be issued if required.

Cairns Regional Council has initiated level 4 water restrictions. Limit water use to essential needs only, including drinking, cooking and bathing.

Be prepared for interruptions – store water.

Current Conditions

Conditions have eased and threat has reduced.

Safety Advice

Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwaters — it is dangerous.
Exercise caution and drive to the conditions. If its flooded – Forget it!
Check or make an emergency kit. Find out how to get ready and pack an emergency kit at the Get Ready Queensland website (Get Prepared)
Share this information with friends, family and neighbours.

For More Information

Follow the Cairns Local Disaster Dashboard: www.disaster.cairns.qld.gov.au
Listen to ABC Far North on 801 AM, 95.5 FM, or 106.7 FM.
For power outage information, visit: ergon.com.au/network
Check the latest weather warnings, rainfall, and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology Queensland website.
Check road closures at the QLD Traffic website or phone 13 19 40.
Check public transport disruptions at the Translink website.

Emergency Assistance