Victorians urged to prepare now for potential storms
As Victoria enters its high-risk spring and summer season, Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is urging residents across central parts of the state, including Greater Melbourne, to take proactive steps to prepare their homes and properties for an increased risk of severe storms over spring and summer.
Severe thunderstorms and the potential for damaging winds and flash flooding are a known risk during Victoria’s spring and summer period. Additionally, the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast above-average rainfall across much of eastern Australia, including Victoria, over the coming months.
So, it pays to prepare now and VICSES is encouraging all Victorians to take proactive steps to prepare their properties for the risk of damaging winds, flash flooding, and severe thunderstorms this high-risk season. This includes trimming back any overhanging branches near your house, clearing out gutters and drains to prevent blockages, and parking vehicles in safe locations away from trees if strong winds are forecast.
It’s also important to secure outdoor furniture and loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. These simple actions can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and improve safety during severe weather events.
Recent VICSES data shows a clear upward trend in Requests for Assistance (RFAs) across central Victoria over the past three years. In 2022/23, VICSES units in Emerald, Lilydale, and Nillumbik responded to hundreds of storm-related calls, with Emerald alone handling 803 RFAs. By 2023/24, that number had surged to 1,107, with Monash and Knox also seeing major increases. The trend continued into 2024/25, with Emerald again topping the list, followed closely by Warragul, Whitehorse, and Frankston.
Meanwhile, the Western Region has also seen a notable increase. RFAs remained steady between 2022/23 and 2023/24 but rose sharply to 474 in 2024/25, a 27% increase. Towns such as Hamilton, Portland, and Cobden have experienced more frequent and intense storm-related incidents. This steady rise in callouts highlights the growing impact of severe weather on Greater Melbourne suburbs and reinforces the need for early action.
Victorians keen to learn more about they can best prepare themselves are encouraged to visit ses.vic.gov.au for practical advice and tips to act safely in the event of a storm or flood emergency.
A Safer Spring Starts with Preparation
As Victoria enters this season of increased risk, VICSES reminds all residents that preparedness is a shared responsibility. By acting now, communities across Victoria can help reduce the impact of emergencies and ensure a safer spring for all.
Quotes attributable to Alistair Drayton, VICSES Chief Officer Operations
“Even in traditionally quieter areas, we’re seeing more frequent and intense weather events. This data reinforces the need for Victorians in both urban and rural environments to take preparedness seriously.”
Quotes attributable to Jessica Rice, VICSES Emerald Unit Controller
“This high-risk weather season, preparedness is a shared responsibility. Our volunteers are ready to respond, but we need communities to act now. The best defence against storms is early preparation and clearing gutters, trimming trees and securing loose items around your property can make a real difference.”
