Storms and floods
We don’t want a little rain to dampen your enthusiasm for nature but planning appropriately for storm and flood conditions (including having multiple options) will mean a safer and more enjoyable time.
Checking conditions and how to prepare:
- Check the BOM website for weather and water conditions
- Have the VicEmergency App on your phone and set up watch zones for the area you intend to visit.
- Check the park page for the park you plan to visit for any changes of conditions or closures. Some parks are closed when high winds or other severe weather is predicted. This can happen at short notice, so its good to have a plan B! Look for alternative places to visit that are outside the forecast weather area or are more suitable during wet and windy weather.
- Check for severe weather closures on the changes of conditions listings page.
- Know your limitations – that includes you and anyone you are travelling with, your vehicle, and technology you carry with you.
Things to consider:
If wet and windy weather is on its way, then you need to plan what this means for your visit. Keep in mind that if there has been recent storms, the areas already impacted will be more vulnerable to wind and rain. These areas should be avoided.
For activities on land
- High winds significantly increase the risk of trees and branches falling and striking people or vehicles- especially where there has been recent storm damage.
- Flooding and fallen trees or debris can block tracks and access roads without warning causing you to become isolated.
- Mud and debris can cause tracks to become slippery.
- Ensure you have the appropriate clothing, supplies, and footwear for the conditions.
If heading out into the water:
- Creeks and rivers are expected to rise in many areas. Water may be fast-moving and carry unseen debris or submerged objects. Any form of recreation- swimming, kayaking, boarding, etc- in these conditions is very dangerous.
- After rainfall, stormwater flows into bays through drains and rivers. You should not swim near these areas for at least 24–48 hours after it has been raining as the poor water quality can cause sickness and infections.
- For your safety, please obey all closure signage and barriers – even if it isn’t immediately obvious why an area is taped off. Remember- never enter floodwater.