VICSES volunteers show strength in numbers as storms smash state

As a series of storm fronts swept across the state earlier this week, Victoria State Emergency Service volunteers from across Victoria leapt into action to support their community.

Severe thunderstorms and localised intense rainfall smashed several locales in both regional and metropolitan areas on 26 and 27 November, with uprooted trees, snapped branches and flash flooding widely reported by Victorian communities.

Between midday, 26 November and 10am, 28 November, VICSES volunteers were called to attend more than 670 requests for assistance (RFAs) from Victorians, with more than 260 relating to trees down, more than 200 regarding building damage, and over 130 as a result of flooding.

Consecutive severe storms which battered parts of the state on Wednesday resulted in the bulk of the damage, with VICSES volunteers attending more than 500 RFAs in a 24-hour period from 8am on 27 November.

VICSES Moorabbin Unit was the state’s busiest, attending almost 80 RFAs as thunderstorms roared through several bayside communities in the afternoon and evening, with Brighton and Brighton East the suburbs most heavily impacted.

Other nearby VICSES units were also kept active, with Glen Eira and Whitehorse units (31 RFAs each) busy supporting their communities, while South Barwon unit (24 RFAs) was called to action as storms struck the Bellarine Peninsula.

In total, more than 80 VICSES units were actively responding to RFAs during this period.

Wednesday’s storms followed severe weather which caused significant damage to the northern Victorian township of Yarrawonga on Tuesday evening, with the local unit called to almost 20 RFAs in less than an hour prior to 8pm.

With further adverse weather expected later this week, now is the time for Victorians to prepare their property to withstand stormy conditions.

Across the state, community members are encouraged to clear their gutters, tend to any overhanging branches where possible, and secure any loose outdoor items in advance.

To stay up-to-date with emergency warnings, visit emergency.vic.gov.au/respond.

Quotes attributable to David Baker, VICSES State Agency Commander:

“VICSES volunteers across the state have done an outstanding job supporting their communities through a series of damaging storm events.

“Although we are nearing the end of spring, it’s important for Victorians not to become complacent around the threat of storms.

“Please be prepared, and stay informed as we enter the year’s hottest months.”