Australia: Severe weather forecast over parts of far northern Northern Territory through at least March 15

Severe weather is forecast across parts of far northern Northern Territory through at least March 16. A developing tropical low is forecast to move over the region over the coming days, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas to northern coastal areas of the state, including Darwin. As of March 13, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds and heavy rainfall across Tiwi and parts of Daly and Arnhem forecast districts. Locations that may be affected include Darwin, Palmerston, Maningrida, Wurrumiyanga, Milikapiti, and Pirlangimpi. A separate severe weather warning for damaging surf has been issued for northern coastal areas of Tiwi and Arnhem districts.

Winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) are possible over Tiwi Island and the northern Top End coast from early March 14. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 12-16 cm (4.7-6.3 inches) are possible in northern Daly district from early March 14 and the heavy downpours could generate flash flooding in the affected area. Flood watches are in place for northern and western Top End catchments. Waves of up to 4 meters (13 feet) are possible around the exposed west and north-facing coasts of Bathurst and Melville Islands and the Cobourg Peninsula March 14 and the Wessel Islands March 15. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the northern NT coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.