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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Australia 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 ·
Severe weather warnings are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology when dangerous conditions—damaging winds above 90 km/h, rainfall rates exceeding 30 mm/h, or hail larger than 2 cm—are expected within 3 to 12 hours. Each warning specifies the affected district, onset time, and confidence level, allowing residents to prepare ahead.
What conditions prompt a severe weather warning?
The Bureau of Meteorology triggers a warning when winds gust over 90 km/h, rainfall intensities top 30 mm/h, or hail exceeds 2 cm in diameter. Thresholds can vary by state; for instance, a super storm warning for Qld today may incorporate higher wind gusts due to tropical cyclone influences, while a storm warning Melbourne today may focus on localised downbursts.
How do I interpret a severe weather warning?
Each warning lists the hazard type, affected area (matched to a severe weather map), time of onset and expiry, and forecast confidence. For example, a severe weather warning NSW today map shows colour-coded districts where red indicates immediate action. The live ranking above prioritises the most urgent warnings across Australia, including a severe weather warning Victoria today and a severe weather warning South Australia today.
How long is a severe weather warning valid?
Most warnings remain active for 3 to 12 hours, but can be extended if conditions persist. Always check the latest bulletin on the Bureau of Meteorology website for exact expiry times.
What is the difference between a severe weather warning and a thunderstorm warning?
A thunderstorm warning covers short-lived events like lightning and sudden gusts, while a severe weather warning addresses broader, longer-lasting hazards such as destructive wind fields or widespread heavy rain.
Where can I see a severe weather warning NSW today map?
The Bureau of Meteorology provides interactive maps on its website. Our live ranking above links to state-specific pages, including a Queensland weather warnings map and a severe weather warning Victoria tomorrow forecast.