Trees down, minor flooding in Wyndham storm damage

Wyndham’s SES responded to dozens of calls for assistance after a wild storm wiped out trees, caused flooding, and damaged buildings.

SES units in Wyndham responded to dozens of requests for assistance after wet weather lashed the central and eastern parts of the state on Wednesday.

Ballarat and parts of Gippsland saw rainfall of more than 100mm in the 24 hours to 9am on Thursday, while Wyndham reportedly only recorded 6mm, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

“Intense rain, flash flooding and large hail observed near Ballarat,” a Bureau spokesman said.

“While there was minor flooding in parts of Gippsland thanks to heavy rain in the east.”

A flash flood watch was issued at 7pm for Werribee and surrounding areas, warning that storms were causing localised flash flooding.

Across Wyndham flooding was reported in Hoppers Crossing and Werribee, while a medical centre’s roof collapsed on Heaths Rd in Werribee.

An SES spokeswoman said 23 units from Wyndham responded to requests for assistance over the past 24 hours.

“The main damage was for trees down, followed by building damage and flooding,” she said.

Hoppers Crossing units responded to the most requests, with 12 call outs and Werribee SES units attended 11.

The SES spokeswoman urged the community to remain vigilant around flooded roads and stay away from large trees.

“If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater. Avoid travel if possible,” she said.

“Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.”