January 12, 2025 Severe storms caused flash flooding in Melbourne, Australia, leading to widespread damage, including downed trees and power outages affecting tens of thousands of homes.
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Flash Flooding and Disruptions Across Victoria
Melbourne, Australia – Widespread thunderstorms battered Melbourne on Sunday morning, causing flash flooding, power outages, and disruptions, including the suspension of play at the Australian Open. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued severe thunderstorm warnings for eastern parts of the state, cautioning residents about potential heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and large hailstones.
Flash Flooding and Storm Impact
Heavy rainfall led to flash flooding in parts of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), with significant water accumulation at key intersections such as Russell and Lonsdale streets. The BOM recorded 24.6mm of rain at Melbourne Park within just 30 minutes, bringing the Australian Open to a standstill as spectators scrambled for cover under ponchos and umbrellas.
In the eastern part of the state, Stradbroke West recorded 29mm of rain by 3 p.m., while East Sale experienced wind gusts of up to 91kph. By 4 p.m., more than 8,000 customers across Victoria were affected by power outages, exacerbating the storm’s impact on residents and businesses.
Emergency Response and Public Safety Measures
The State Emergency Service (SES) responded to 161 requests for assistance since midnight, with its busiest units in Footscray, Malvern, and Moorabbin. Emergency responders advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to steer clear of hazards such as floodwaters, damaged roads, and fallen trees.
Despite an earlier severe thunderstorm warning for Melbourne, the BOM later cancelled the alert, stating that “the immediate threat of severe thunderstorms has passed, but the situation will continue to be monitored.”
Australian Open Disruptions
The adverse weather conditions severely impacted the first day of the Australian Open. Matches on outdoor courts at Melbourne Park were suspended, with no play expected before 5:30 p.m. (AEDT). However, matches continued under the closed roofs of Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and John Cain Arena, allowing the tournament to proceed despite the downpour.
Ongoing Weather Threats
While Melbourne’s immediate severe thunderstorm warning was lifted, BOM maintained warnings for the West and South Gippsland districts, as well as parts of the Central, East Gippsland, North East, and North Central districts. The affected areas, including Wangaratta, Bright, Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, and Maffra, remain at risk of severe storms.
With unpredictable weather patterns and the potential for further disruptions, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Residents and visitors are urged to stay updated through official BOM alerts and follow safety advisories to mitigate risks posed by extreme weather events.
Conclusion
Severe thunderstorms across Victoria have highlighted the vulnerability of urban infrastructure to extreme weather. The swift response from emergency services and public safety measures underscores the importance of preparedness in mitigating the impacts of climate-driven disasters. As the storm threat persists in parts of the state, vigilance and precaution remain paramount to ensuring public safety and minimizing disruptions.
Source:
www.abc.net.au
