Authorities in the Northern Territory are responding to severe flooding in the town of Katherine after heavy rainfall caused the Katherine River to rise to near-record levels. Emergency services say more than 700 residents have been evacuated from their homes as floodwaters continued to threaten communities across the region

Officials reported that the river peaked at around 19.2 metres, exceeding levels recorded during previous major floods and forcing emergency shelters to open in local schools. Rescue teams have been assisting residents using helicopters and boats while monitoring river levels and weather conditions closely.

Emergency supplies, including food and drinking water, are being transported from Darwin to assist displaced residents. Authorities also confirmed that some infrastructure has been affected, with power outages reported and certain roads temporarily closed due to dangerous flood conditions.

Weather experts warn that additional rainfall and thunderstorms may continue to affect the region, potentially worsening flooding in nearby communities. Emergency services are urging residents to follow official safety advice and avoid entering floodwaters as recovery and monitoring efforts continue.