With a hot summer forecast for Victoria, damaging winds, heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding, and hail are more likely on very hot days.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has indicated that Loddon Mallee Region will experience hotter than average nights this summer.

In the past, the summer period has been associated with enhanced risk of fire, however the frequency of severe thunderstorms has increased.

Accompanying storm activity are damaging winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding, and the potential for large hail on hot days.

Locally, these weather conditions are likely to fell trees over roads and properties, or buildings, resulting in damage, and creating hazardous road conditions leading to collisions.

Do you know that your Victoria State Emergency Service Wedderburn Unit is made up of volunteers, who provide a 24 hour emergency response every day of the year to the impacts of storm and flood events. Your local VICSES Unit is also an important part of the largest Road Crash Rescue (RCR) coverage area in the nation.

Mike Bagnall, Unit Controller for VICSES Wedderburn Unit, is calling for, enthusiastic people to volunteer to be a part of your local SES team. VICSES members support your local community, help your neighbours and save lives.

Being a first responder is not for everyone, and that’s why our members also take on roles in finance, wellbeing, health and safety, administrative and community education. Practical training is provided for any specialist pathways, for example becoming a community engagement facilitator who undertakes school visits.

VICSES provides a unique opportunity for people who would like to learn how to do new things, develop leadership skills, and complete competency-based training that can be utilised in work and home settings.

VICSES volunteers are required to undergo a national criminal record check prior to joining, protective clothing and equipment is supplied.

From townships on the Murray to the north, throughout the Mallee, over and between the ranges to the east and around the central plains: our volunteers are ready. Interested in volunteering with VICSES? Join us.

Background:

Are You Storm Ready:

• Clean your gutters regularly
• Remove trees or branches that have the potential to fall on your house.
• When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issue, tie down, secure, or relocate garden furniture.
• Listen to your emergency Broadcaster and monitor warnings via the Vic Emergency App.
• Visit the SES website (ses.vic.gov.au) to learn more about volunteering today!