Victoria’s top 10 storm hotspots revealed by AAMI

With storm season rapidly setting upon the state of Victoria, it’s more important than ever to understand the level of risk in your region, and how prepared you need to be. By analysing more than 10,000 storm-related insurance claims made in the last year (between 1 July 2018 and 1 July 2019), AAMI was able to identify the state’s top 10 worst-affected suburbs when it comes to storm damage.

1. Berwick

2. Richmond

3. Werribee

4. Rowville

5. Fawkner

6. Camberwell

7. Point Cook

8. Kew

9. Reservoir & Chirnside Park

10. Glen Iris

A break down of Victoria’s 10 most storm-affected suburbs

The east was the most severely affected by storms over the last year, claiming 7 of the top 10 hotspots. Berwick (1) and Rowville (4) showed that the south-east can be an area of high risk. This is particularly interesting as in the previous year (2017-2018), AAMI’s data revealed Rowville as the most storm-affected. This means that the south-east region has seen the most storm damage for two years in a row.

The inner east suburbs also felt the brunt of wild weather, with Richmond (2), Kew (8), Camberwell (6) and Glen Iris (10) all making the list.

The storms didn’t just stay east though; far west residents in Werribee (3) and Point Cook (7) were severely affected, and of course Fawkner (5) and Reservoir (9) in the north saw a fair share of damage. All in all, it goes to show how easily (and often) the wild weather can travel around the state, a sentiment shared by VIC SES Chief Office of Operations, Tim Wiebusch.

“This data speaks volumes at the level of destruction that severe weather can cause,” he said. “With the warmer weather, we often see these types of weather event continue long after the cold seasons. This is why it’s important to stay informed about your local situation.”

Storm damage can happen anywhere

While this information is helpful in learning the more storm-prone areas, even people outside these suburbs should take the necessary steps to minimise risk. Weather events like these are often incredibly unpredictable, meaning that they may start in one area but quickly spread to another.

Victoria’s storm season is typically between October and March, and can see thunderstorms, flash floods, hailstorms, high winds and more throughout the state.

How to prepare for storm season in Victoria

Trim overhanging trees and branches
Clean debris out of gutters and downpipes
Secure any loose items that are outside, or put them away somewhere safe
Ensure your roof is maintained in a good condition
Keep important documents, such as marriage certificates and wills, in waterproof storage
Take photos of any important receipts and precious items
If you’re in a flood-prone area, get to know where your community shelters and meeting points are, and check where there’s safe high ground nearby
Make sure your insurance policy covers you in the case of a storm

AAMI has several home insurance options – Home & Contents, Home Building, and Contents Insurance. All of them provide different levels of cover (so it’s important to consider each and decide which one best suits your needs), but storm, flood, and bushfire cover is automatically covered with each.

Compare AAMI Home Insurance Policies