Geelong Residents Urged to Prepare for Unpredictable and Potentially Destructive Storm Season

Strategic Insights -

Residents in the Geelong region are being warned to take necessary precautions and prepare for another potentially destructive storm season, with volatile weather expected to hit as early as Thursday. Emergency services are urging locals to "tie down trampolines," clear gutters, and trim back trees to prevent damage and ensure their safety. The Victoria State Emergency Service (VIC SES) is reminding residents that storm season is a critical time, with above-average rainfall predicted across Victoria, increasing the risk of flash flooding, damaging winds, and hail.

Key Takeaways:

  • VIC SES Assistant Chief Officer for the Barwon South West region, Jackson Bell, is urging residents to prepare for the storm season by taking simple yet vital steps to protect their homes and families.
  • Severe thunderstorms last year caused widespread damage across the Geelong region, particularly in suburbs like Belmont, Armstrong Creek, and St Albans Park.
  • The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast above-average rainfall across Victoria this spring and summer, increasing the risk of flash flooding, damaging winds, and hail.
  • VIC SES is reminding drivers to avoid driving around road closures and into floodwaters, as this can be a threat to life and-drain emergency resources.
  • Residents are encouraged to check their roof, clear gutters, trim back trees, and secure loose items in their yard to prevent damage during strong winds or flash flooding.
  • VIC SES volunteers are ready to respond to emergencies, but are urging residents to take responsibility for their own preparation.
  • Between midnight Friday morning and midday October 13, VICSES Barwon region volunteers were called to 57 total requests for assistance, with 32 relating to trees down and 17 for building damage.

Statistics:

  • 90km/h damaging winds were recorded across the Geelong region.
  • Between midnight Friday morning and midday October 13, VICSES Barwon region volunteers were called to 57 requests for assistance.
  • 32 requests for assistance related to trees down, while 17 were for building damage.
  • VICSES South Barwon Unit volunteers were the busiest in the state during this period with 16 requests for assistance, while Geelong Unit was the second busiest with 12 requests.

Sources:

  • Olivia Conder
  • Victoria State Emergency Service (VIC SES)
  • Bureau of Meteorology