Tragic Storm Unleashes Chaos in Victoria: Woman Killed, Widespread Damage
In a night of relentless fury, Victoria has been struck by one of the most severe weather events in recent memory. The storm, marked by staggering wind speeds and destructive forces, has left a trail of devastation across the state. Tragically, a 63-year-old woman lost her life when a tree crashed onto her cabin in Moama, located on the Victoria-New South Wales border. This heart-wrenching incident occurred around 3:50 a.m. on Monday, with emergency responders discovering her body inside the wreckage. A man of the same age, who was also in the cabin, sustained injuries to his hand and has been transported to Echuca Hospital for treatment.
The storm's impact has been devastating, with parts of Victoria experiencing wind gusts of up to 146 kilometers per hour. The State Emergency Service (SES) has been overwhelmed, receiving over 1,000 calls for assistance. The Bureau of Meteorology has described the storm’s intensity as comparable to a category two or three cyclone, highlighting the severity of the weather conditions. The gale-force winds have caused widespread power outages, leaving approximately 140,000 properties across eastern and southwestern Victoria, including Melbourne, in the dark.
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As the storm progressed, the effects were felt across the state. In Glen Iris, a tree fell on a residential property, while in Parkdale, Melbourne’s south-east, a house lost part of its roof. The SES's Kate Turner reported significant damage in Warragul, Morwell, Emerald, Hastings, and Ballarat, noting that many roads are blocked by fallen trees and debris. The severity of the damage has led to warnings for motorists to drive with extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel.
Power outages are a major concern, with United Energy estimating that repairs could take several days. Emma Tyner from the company advised that the restoration process would be lengthy due to the extensive damage to power lines and infrastructure. In the meantime, residents are urged to stay clear of fallen power lines and report any sightings to emergency services.
The weather conditions are expected to continue through Monday before beginning to ease in the late afternoon. The Bureau of Meteorology’s Rod Dickson indicated that while the worst of the winds may be over, there is still a risk of damaging winds and scattered thunderstorms. High tides and strong westerly winds are causing concerns along the Victorian coast, particularly in low-lying areas.
As Victoria grapples with the aftermath of this storm, Parks Victoria has closed several piers due to dangerous coastal conditions, and emergency crews are tirelessly working to manage the widespread damage. This event serves as a stark reminder of nature's power and the importance of preparedness in the face of such extreme weather. Stay safe, stay informed, and follow local advisories as the situation continues to develop.
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