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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Coast Current Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Victoria’s network of Bureau of Meteorology weather radars tracks rain, hail and storms across the state in real time. The live radar above shows where precipitation is falling now and how it is moving over the next hour.
How does Victoria’s weather radar network work?
The BOM weather radar Victoria network comprises six operational sites, including the key Melbourne radar at Laverton and regional sites at Yarrawonga and Mildura. Each radar emits microwave pulses and measures the signal reflected back by rain, hail or snow. The data is composited into the statewide view you see on the live radar above, covering both metro and rural areas.
The practical takeaway: radar shows where rain is active now and its movement direction. For the next few hours you can estimate arrival times at your location. For forecasts beyond that, combine radar trends with the official outlook for Victoria weather or the Melbourne forecast.
How should I read the live radar for Victoria?
Colour intensity tells the story. Green indicates light rain, yellow is moderate, and orange or red signals heavy rain or possible hail. Use the radar loop to see how systems are moving and whether they are strengthening or weakening. This is especially useful for tracking fronts approaching from Bass Strait or the west.
If you are checking weather radar Victoria next 24 hours or weather radar Victoria tomorrow, the live radar is best for nowcasting the first few hours. Pair it with BOM’s forecast models for the full picture. For on-the-go access, the victoria weather radar live app function is available in the BOM weather app, as well as third-party platforms such as Weatherzone and WillyWeather, which also offer elders radar victoria live views alongside the bom radar victoria live satellite imagery.
What is the difference between radar and satellite?
Radar measures precipitation directly by bouncing microwave pulses off raindrops and hail near the ground. Satellite imagery detects cloud tops from above. Radar shows what is reaching the ground now; satellite shows broader cloud structure and movement.
Why does the radar sometimes show rain when it is not raining?
Non-meteorological targets such as birds, insects, dust or atmospheric refraction can create false echoes. The BOM filters these where possible, but brief speckled returns can appear on calm, clear days, especially overnight. Check the loop to confirm genuine movement.
Can I use the radar to see tomorrow’s rain?
No — radar only shows current precipitation. For weather radar Victoria tomorrow, refer to BOM’s forecast models and the official seven-day outlook. Use the live radar to confirm whether forecast rain is arriving on schedule.