What is severe weather?

Severe weather refers to hazardous weather conditions that have the potential to threaten the safety of people and animals, and cause significant damage to homes and infrastructure. Here, we share suggestions and resources to help you prepare for severe weather events that occur in Victoria, including bushfires, storms and floods.

Remember, during a storm, flood or fire, always follow the advice of emergency services. If you're in a life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000).

dark clouds of approaching storm
  • Staying safe

    • Plan on how and where to evacuate to in the event you need to leave.
    • Pre-pack an emergency kit of essential and sentimental items in plastic bags or containers to keep them dry and safe from water damage.
    • Download the VicEmergency app for real-time emergency information and warnings https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au

  • Protecting your home

    • Secure external doors and windows.
    • Store or secure outdoor items like trampolines or garden furniture.
    • Clean gutters and downpipes.
    • Check the roof for cracked or displaced tiles that could cause leaks.
    • Sweep branches, leaves and other debris away from drains.
    • Make sure your home insurance is current and covers you for the right items and structures.
australian bush
  • Bushfires in Victoria

    While fires can occur at any time of year, bushfire season in Victoria typically peaks during the summer months in December, January and February. The severity and predictability of bushfires can change depending on a number of conditions, including humidity, cool changes, temperature and more; so it is important to be aware of your environment and the associated risks so you can make the right fire plan for your circumstances.

  • Staying safe

    • Plan on how and where to evacuate to in the event you need to leave.
    • Have an emergency kit of essential and sentimental items packed up and ready to go.
    • Monitor the bushfire alert levels and Fire Danger Ratings and follow the advice and direction of emergency services.
  • Protecting your home

    • Keep up a regular home and garden maintenance routine by mowing the lawn and removing debris from gutters and pipes.
    • Seal gaps in windows and doors as best you can.
    • Remove and store flammable items (including wood piles) well away from your home.
    • Make sure your home insurance is current and covers you for the right items and structures.

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The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Product(s) issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678.

^ The RACV Home Buildings and Home Contents Calculators provide an indication of rebuilding or replacement costs only and in no way guarantees the amount RACV Insurance may agree to insure your home or contents for. It is your responsibility to check that this amount is enough to cover the rebuilding costs of your home or replacement costs of your home’s contents at today’s prices. Before you decide whether to buy or continue to hold RACV Home Insurance, you should calculate the actual replacement value of your home and contents and consider the information in the Product Disclosure Statement.