Australia: Multiple killed following heavy storms near Melbourne on August 28

Event

Australian emergency services report that at least three people were killed on Friday, August 28, in Melbourne suburbs following the passing of heavy storms. The fatalities reportedly occurred in the Blackburn South, Tecoma, and Fernshaw areas of the city after numerous trees were blown down. Workers continue to restore power and drinking water to thousands of residents affected by the inclement weather after numerous powerlines were downed and untreated water overflowed into the city's water system. Full restoration of utilities is expected to take multiple days, with more than 95,000 homes currently reported to be without power. The suburb of Belgrave was the most affected with reports of heavy damage due to downed trees and power lines.  

Further heavy rainfall and resultant flooding are possible over the coming days, along with associated disruptions to business and transport.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.