March 9, 2026, 7:39 a.mMarch 9, 2026, 7:39 a.m
After severe flooding in northern Australia, authorities have urgently warned the population not to go into rivers or flooded areas – especially because of numerous crocodiles. In the city of Katherine in the Northern Territory, the Katherine River burst its banks after heavy rain, 7News reported. The level reached almost 20 meters – the highest level since 1998, when devastating floods hit the region.
Authorities in northern Australia warn of crocodiles.Image: AP
So far, around 1,000 people have had to be brought to safety, including patients and staff from the Katherine hospital who were transferred to the provincial capital Darwin. Residents of several remote communities were evacuated by planes and helicopters.
“Crocodiles absolutely everywhere”
Meanwhile, emergency services warned urgently not to go into the floods – both because of the strong current and because of the numerous saltwater crocodiles. “We have reports of people swimming in rivers,” station 9News quoted operations chief Shaun Gill as saying. “Please don’t do that.” The rescue operations are difficult anyway. “There are crocodiles absolutely everywhere,” warned Gill. The animals are particularly active during floods.
The Northern Territory is popular with tourists from all over the world. Katherine is close to the spectacular Nitmiluk National Park with the fascinating Katherine Gorge, created over millions of years by the Katherine River. For many travelers, a visit by boat or kayak is the highlight of a trip to Australia’s north. The region is also known for its dangerous wildlife; in addition to huge saltwater crocodiles, there are also poisonous snakes and spiders. (dab/sda/dpa)