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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 ·
Check the live ranking above for current severe weather warnings across Australia. Severe weather includes thunderstorms, damaging winds, heavy rain, and heatwaves — any of these can disrupt safety and travel, so act now if your area is listed.
What counts as severe weather in Australia?
The Bureau of Meteorology issues warnings when conditions meet specific thresholds: damaging wind gusts over 90 km/h, heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding, large hail (2 cm or more), or extreme heat that poses health risks. These events are the most common severe weather examples seen nationwide. The severe weather outlook from BOM helps you anticipate risks up to seven days ahead.
How should I prepare for severe weather today or tomorrow?
If a warning is active for your location — check the live ranking above — secure loose outdoor items, move vehicles undercover, and avoid driving through floodwaters. For severe weather melbourne or severe weather sydney, localised storms can develop rapidly; monitor the weather radar for real-time movement. For a broader view, visit our Australia weather hub.
What is the difference between a severe weather warning and a severe thunderstorm warning?
A severe weather warning covers broader hazards like heavy rain, damaging winds, or heatwaves. A severe thunderstorm warning is a specific subtype for thunderstorms that may produce large hail, tornadoes, or flash flooding — often issued with shorter notice.
How can I find severe weather near me right now?
Check the live ranking above for the most urgent warnings by state. You can also use the BOM website or a weather app that shows severe weather warning today for your postcode. For severe weather tomorrow, refer to the seven-day outlook on our warnings page.
Are heatwaves considered severe weather?
Yes, the Bureau classifies extreme heat as severe weather when temperatures exceed thresholds that endanger health and infrastructure. Heatwave warnings include expected intensity, duration, and advice on staying cool — especially relevant for severe weather sydney and severe weather melbourne during summer.