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Saturday, 18 July 2026 · Evening editionSydney ⛅ 13°CAUD/USD 0.6975 · AUD/EUR 0.6100About UsOur TeamSourcesContactNewsletter

Weather Warning

HomeWeatherWeather Warning

Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Coast Pulse Hub Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.

Check current weather warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology before heading out. Severe weather can develop quickly across Australia, from super storms in Queensland to damaging winds in Victoria and NSW.

What types of weather warnings are issued?

The Bureau of Meteorology issues warnings for a range of hazardous conditions, each with specific messaging to help you prepare. The most common include:

  • Severe thunderstorm warning – for large hail, damaging winds, or heavy rain.
  • Severe weather warning – covering broad-area damaging winds, heavy rain, or snow.
  • Flood warning – for riverine or flash flooding.
  • Cyclone warning – for tropical cyclones affecting coastal communities.
  • Extreme heat warning – for prolonged high temperatures that pose health risks.

How to stay safe during a weather warning

When a warning is current, follow advice from emergency services and limit unnecessary travel. For example, a severe weather warning Victoria today might warn of damaging winds, while a super storm warning for QLD today could bring intense rainfall and lightning. Key steps include:

  • Monitor the BOM website or weather radar for updates.
  • Secure loose outdoor items and move vehicles under cover.
  • Avoid driving through floodwater or under damaged trees.
  • Charge phones and keep an emergency kit handy.
Warning LevelsBOM uses four levels: Advice, Watch, Warning, Emergency Warning
Annual TotalOver 1,500 severe weather warnings are issued across Australia each year
QLD RiskQueensland experiences the highest number of super storm warnings per year
VIC FocusVictoria’s severe weather warnings often centre on damaging winds and heavy rain
What is a severe weather warning?

A severe weather warning is issued by the BOM when hazardous conditions like damaging winds, heavy rain, large hail, or dangerous surf are expected or occurring. It replaces the older “severe thunderstorm warning” for widespread events.

How are weather warnings issued?

The Bureau of Meteorology monitors conditions using radar, satellite, and ground observations. Warnings are broadcast via its website, app, and media outlets such as Coast Pulse Hub, and updated as new data arrives. For example, weather warnings NSW today often come from coastal troughs.

What should I do when a weather warning is issued?

Stay indoors, secure property, and avoid driving through floodwaters. Check the BOM site for the latest severe weather warning and listen to local emergency services. If a warning for tomorrow is posted, plan ahead to avoid travel during dangerous periods.