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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.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Severe weather warnings are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology when dangerous conditions such as destructive winds, heavy rain, large hail or storm surges are expected. The practical takeaway: check your local warning zone as soon as the alert is issued and act early—don’t wait until the storm arrives.
What is a severe weather warning?
It’s an official alert that dangerous weather is occurring or likely within hours. The Bureau issues them for specific hazards per state or region—wind gusts above 90 km/h, intense rainfall leading to flash flooding, large hailstones, or surf surges. A separate severe thunderstorm warning for NSW today covers the same idea but is more localised (usually under 100 km across). A super storm warning for Qld today is rare; the Bureau uses “supercell” language only when radar shows a high-end thunderstorm. The warning map sits on the Severe Weather Warning page and is updated at least every six hours for ongoing events.
How do I respond?
When a severe weather warning is active in your area, move vehicles under cover, secure loose outdoor items, and avoid driving through floodwater. For severe weather warnings Victoria, check the Australia Severe Weather Warnings page for the alert’s text. If you live in Sydney, a storm warning Melbourne today follows the same rules—stay indoors away from windows and unplug sensitive electronics. The Bureau also issues severe weather warnings Melbourne as part of its statewide advisory for Victoria, often with a lead time of one to three hours.
How do I know if my area is under a severe weather warning?
Check the Bureau’s warning map on its app or website, or tune into a local ABC radio station. Many weather apps also show active warnings for your GPS location.
What’s the difference between a severe weather warning and a thunderstorm warning?
A severe thunderstorm warning NSW today covers a single storm that is occurring or imminent; a severe weather warning is broader and may last several hours, covering a larger region with compounded hazards.
How often are warnings updated?
Usually every six hours for ongoing events, but the Bureau may issue an intermediate update if conditions change quickly. Always check the “Issued at” time stamp.