Victorians urged to prepare now ahead of forecast storms

23/02/2026, 4:34 PM
Community members are encouraged to prepare now for potential severe storms forecast for central parts of Victoria for Tuesday, 24 February.


After storms hit parts of Victoria with heavy rain on Sunday, more severe weather is expected on Tuesday into Wednesday morning.

The Victoria State Emergency Service is urging communities across northern and central parts of the state, including Melbourne, to prepare for the storms now.

Warm, humid and unsettled conditions are forecast to develop, increasing the risk of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and damaging winds.

With many people commuting to work or school, motorists are urged to drive to the conditions, allow extra travel time and stay alert for hazards. These could include fallen trees, debris, damaged powerlines and localised flash flooding.

As Victoria continues through this high-risk weather season, residents are encouraged not to become complacent. Simple steps taken now can reduce damage and limit the need for emergency assistance:

  • Tie down or bring indoors loose outdoor items such as furniture, trampolines and umbrellas.
  • Park vehicles undercover or away from trees.
  • Clear gutters and downpipes to help prevent water entering your home.
  • Check drains and remove debris around your property.

Recent storms are a timely reminder that severe weather can occur anywhere and with little notice. Heavy rainfall yesterday led to localised flash flooding in and around Wodonga.

Between 12pm on Sunday and 10am this morning, VICSES received about 250 requests for assistance statewide, including more than 130 in the Hume region.

The majority of incidents occurred in and around Wodonga. Local volunteers responded to approximately 90 requests for assistance, all cleared by midnight.

Communities in areas recently impacted by bushfire should exercise more caution. Even moderate rainfall can create dangerous conditions including flash flooding, debris flow, falling trees and landslides.

Burnt ground does not absorb water effectively, meaning runoff can occur quickly and without warning.

If you require VICSES emergency assistance for storm or flood damage, call 132 500. For more information on how to prepare for storms, visit ses.vic.gov.au.

Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app and setting up a personal watch zone to receive the latest warnings and updates for your area.

Quotes attributable to VICSES Chief Officer Operations Alistair Drayton

"VICSES is reminding communities to remain storm ready. Early preparation is the best defence, particularly ahead of peak travel periods.

If severe weather is impacting your area, consider delaying travel where possible and staying indoors until conditions improve. Never drive through floodwater.

Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who worked throughout last night to assist impacted communities and remain ready to respond as further storms approach this week."

Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including

  • VicEmergency app
  • www.emergency.vic.gov.au
  • Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
  • Call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
  • Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X