Severe storm

Severe storm event icon

Severe storms occur in Banyule more frequently than any other major natural hazard. A storm is a severe weather event characterised by strong winds, heavy rain, hailstones and includes thunder and lightning.

They can occur at any time, but are most common from October to April. Damage is caused by lightning, hail, thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rain and flash flooding.

Before: preparing for a storm

To prepare yourself, your family and your property:

  • maintain your roof: clean gutters and down pipes and fix loose tiles, roofing iron;
  • trim or remove trees or branches overhanging your home;
  • keep your yard or porch free of clutter;
  • prepare a home emergency plan and kit;
  • check you have adequate building and contents insurance;
  • ensure everyone knows where, how and when to turn off mains power, water and gas in case you evacuate;
  • make sure your house number is visible from the street;
  • get to know your neighbours and find out who may need extra help; and
  • monitor weather conditions and listen to radio or news bulletins for warning and alerts.

Prepare a household emergency plan

During: what you can do during a storm?

Stay informed: continue to watch the weather and listen to the radio or news bulletins for warnings and alerts.

Don't forget to:

  • make sure your house number is visible from the street;
  • check your home and contents insurance;
  • bring pets inside and make sure they can't escape or create havoc indoors;
  • be ready to evacuate if advised by authorities;
  • raise belongings: put them on tables, beds and benches, or move them to higher ground;
  • block toilets, drains and sinks with plugs to stop sewage back-flow;
  • tie down objects that could float and cause damage;
  • raise poisons, oils and chemicals well above floor level;
  • turn electricity and gas off at the mains; and
  • wear protective clothing such as strong boots and gloves as flood water is likely to be contaminated.

After: recovering from a storm

  • For emergency assistance due to flood damage, call the SES on 132 500.
  • Contact your insurance company immediately and take photos of damage.
  • Be aware of road hazards, such as floodwater, debris and damaged roads or bridges.
  • Find out about relief and recovery assistance and information from Council on 9490 4222 or visit the Emergency Management Victoria.
  • Throw out food and medicines that were in contact with flood water.
  • Dry out and clean buildings straight away. For advice on reducing mould growth and mosquito breeding go to Department of Health and Human Services: After a flood: mould and your health.
  • Disinfect areas that were contaminated by overflowing sewage. Keep children and pets away until clean-up is completed.
  • Contact family and friends to let them know you are ok.

Effects of a severe storm

A severe storm can cause:

  • injury and loss of life
  • damage to homes and businesses
  • damage to public transport, roads and community facilities
  • clean-up costs for property owners
  • lost earnings because of the disruption
  • emotional suffering
  • loss of irreplaceable items.

Resources

Radio & TV

ABC 774 AM, 3AW 693 AM, Plenty Valley FM 88.6 FM and Sky News TV.

Online

Visit Emergency Management Victoria for a full list of broadcasters.

Phone

Flood Storm Emergency: 132 500

Contact us

If you need more information about your emergency plan, please contact our Emergency Management Team on 9490 4222 or enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au

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