Victoria Braces for Unseasonal Severe Thunderstorms with Potential for Destructive Winds and Large Hail

Despite being late Winter, conditions are forecast to be more spring-like as severe thunderstorms are set to batter Victoria on Sunday. 

Warm moisture-laden northerly winds will spread across the state during the day, raising temperatures a few degrees above average. 
Despite this weather being pleasant for most Victorians, it’ll be short-lived. A powerful cold front will sweep across the entire state, triggering widespread thunderstorms, some of which are expected to be severe. The main concern will be damaging to destructive wind gusts and the possibility of large hail.

Higher up in the atmosphere, an impressive amplified upper-level trough will move overhead, destabilising the environment and increasing wind shear. Any thunderstorms that develop may stay well orgainsed for long periods of time and move quickly eastwards as they grow vertically and tap into the highly sheared environment. Very powerful winds just above the surface may be dragged down in thunderstorm downdrafts, producing widespread damaging gusts of 90km/h. 
Some forecast modelling suggests the possibility of one or two highly organised storms with destructive wind gusts above 125km/h, large hail, and a tornado or two (more likely with discrete activity).

A complicating factor that might limit the overall severity of the day is if the atmosphere becomes too saturated. Cloud cover and areas of rain in the morning would significantly decrease instability levels, taking the sting out of a more high-end outbreak. However, widespread storm activity and damaging winds still appear likely.

As Victoria faces the threat of unseasonal severe thunderstorms, residents and businesses should be prepared for potential disruptions. The forecasted weather event could bring destructive winds exceeding 125km/h, large hail, and even the possibility of tornadoes, posing a significant risk to life and property. Power outages, falling trees, and damage to buildings and vehicles are likely, especially in areas hit by the most severe storms. Travel plans may be disrupted, and outdoor activities should be reconsidered due to the dangerous conditions.

In the face of such volatile weather, our services are crucial in keeping communities safe and informed. Our advanced alerting systems provide real-time updates on severe weather threats, allowing residents and businesses to take timely and appropriate action. EWN’s detailed and localised alerts can help individuals secure their properties, avoid hazardous areas, and make informed decisions to protect their loved ones. Additionally, businesses can minimise operational disruptions by leveraging our forecasting tools, ensuring safety measures are in place well before the storm hits.

Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology, EWN is committed to providing the most accurate and timely weather information, helping Victorians navigate the challenges of severe weather with confidence.