Canberra Morning: From Festival Flavours to Flash Floods

The Canberra Catch-up: Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Good morning, Canberra. As the city wakes up this Tuesday, we find ourselves at a crossroads between celebration and caution. The capital is currently navigating the transition from a weekend of high-energy cultural festivities to a period of recovery and weather vigilance following a series of intense summer storms.

The Mood: Post-Festival Recovery

The overall mood of the city is a blend of "festival hangover" and storm-induced alertness. Residents are still reflecting on the success of the 28th National Multicultural Festival, which concluded on Sunday, yet that community spirit is now being tested by the practical challenges of significant storm damage. With a forecast high of 31°C today and the chance of further afternoon showers, the atmosphere remains somewhat heavy and humid as the territory dries out from the weekend's record-breaking downpours.

Key Talking Point: School Closures and Storm Impact

The primary focus for many Canberrans this morning is the ongoing impact of severe weather on local infrastructure. Parts of the city, most notably Curtin, were drenched with over 80mm of rain over the last 48 hours, leading to significant local flooding. The most pressing concern for families involves Woden and Malkara Public Schools, both of which were shuttered on Monday due to extensive damage and flooding. Parents are advised to check for direct updates from the Education Directorate this morning regarding the safety and reopening status of these campuses.

• Emergency Service Response: The ACT State Emergency Service has attended to more than 120 calls for assistance since the weekend, and they remain on alert as more storms are possible this afternoon.
• Commuter Caution: Drivers and cyclists are urged to be wary of waterways and cycleways that may still be affected by flash flooding or debris.
• Federal Activity: On the Hill, Senate Estimates continue this week, drawing national political attention back to Parliament House for departmental scrutiny.

Feel-Good Story: Multicultural Success

Amidst the rain, there is plenty of reason for pride. The 28th National Multicultural Festival has been hailed as a major success, bringing together more than 170 unique cultures in the heart of the CBD. Highlights from the weekend included a headline performance by Troy Cassar-Daley and a rare display of the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy at the Canberra Museum and Gallery. Despite the turn in the weather on Sunday, the event showcased the resilience and diversity of the Canberra community, with thousands utilizing free public transport to attend the global celebration.

Looking Ahead

For those looking to engage with local policy, the ACT Government has officially opened community consultation for the new Nature Conservation Strategy as of yesterday. All residents are encouraged to share their views on protecting the territory's natural environment over the coming years. If you prefer to stay indoors today, the National Library of Australia is hosting the Treasures Gallery and a special 30th-anniversary exhibition of the Mabo decision, both of which are open to the public today.