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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Coast Pulse Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
A severe weather warning from the Bureau of Meteorology means dangerous conditions—damaging winds, heavy rain, hail or flooding—are imminent or occurring. Check the live ranking above for current warnings sorted by severity in your state.
What does a severe weather warning actually mean?
The Bureau issues a severe weather warning when conditions are expected to cause significant risk to life, property or travel. These are different from a cyclone watch or fire danger rating—they cover thunderstorms, east coast lows and cold fronts that bring gusts over 90 km/h or rainfall that can trigger flash flooding. For example, the super storm warning for Qld today or storm warning Melbourne today would appear in the live list above if active.
How to stay informed and prepared
Check the live ranking above first—it shows warnings ranked by urgency. For specific areas, use the Bureau’s weather radar to track storms in real time. If you see a severe weather warning NSW today or severe weather warning Victoria today, delay non-essential travel and avoid flood-prone roads. The same advice applies for severe weather warning Victoria tomorrow—conditions can change rapidly overnight. For residents in the south, a severe weather warning South Australia today often means damaging winds from the Bight.
What should I do when a severe weather warning is issued for my area?
Secure loose outdoor items, move vehicles under cover and stay indoors away from windows. If you’re travelling, check the live ranking above and your planned route on Australia weather hub for road closures.
How are severe weather warnings different from a flood watch or cyclone warning?
Severe weather warnings cover thunderstorms and cold fronts; flood watches focus on riverine flooding; cyclone warnings are specific to tropical cyclones. All three can overlap—check Severe Weather Event page for details.
Can a severe weather warning change quickly?
Yes. Conditions can intensify or shift within an hour. Always refer to the live ranking above and BOM’s latest updates—don’t rely on a warning you saw yesterday.