Monsoon low could bring year’s worth of rain in a week to NSW, Queensland and South Australia

The Guardian World

by Petra Stock

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A prolonged monsoon low is poised to deliver an extraordinary amount of rainfall—equivalent to a year’s worth of precipitation—in just one week across parts of New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia. This extreme weather event follows record-breaking heatwaves in the region and carries a high risk of flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for areas including north-western NSW, central and northern Victoria, north-eastern SA, and south-western Queensland, anticipating heavy and locally intense rainfall. The situation is particularly concerning given the recent heatwave that left parts of inland Australia sweltering under record temperatures. The sudden shift from extreme heat to torrential rain could lead to flash flooding, which poses significant risks to communities, infrastructure, and agriculture. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to prepare for potential emergencies, including property damage and disruptions to transportation and communication networks. This weather event highlights the volatility of climate patterns and the increasing frequency of extreme weather phenomena globally. For regions already grappling with droughts and heatwaves, such intense rainfall could bring both challenges and opportunities—reviving parched landscapes but also posing risks of flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas. The Bureau of Meteorology is closely monitoring the situation and advising on necessary precautions to mitigate potential hazards. As climate change continues to influence weather systems, events like this serve as a stark reminder of the need for preparedness and resilience. For those following world news, this story underscores the broader implications of climate variability and its impact on local ecosystems, economies, and human lives. Staying informed through reliable sources like the Bureau of Meteorology’s updates is crucial for navigating such extreme weather conditions safely.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/23/2026