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Weather Warning

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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Australia Data Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.

A weather warning is an official alert from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) when hazardous conditions such as severe storms, floods, or heatwaves are expected across Australia. You should check warnings for your area whenever the forecast turns unsettled, as they give crucial lead time to take action.

What types of weather warnings are issued?

The BOM issues warnings for severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, damaging winds, storm surges, tropical cyclones, bushfires, and extreme heat. Each warning is colour-coded – yellow means monitor, orange means prepare, red means take action immediately. In Queensland, for example, a super storm warning for QLD today might trigger an orange alert if violent winds are imminent.

How can I stay across the latest warnings?

You can view current weather warnings QLD, weather warnings NSW today, and severe weather warning Victoria today or tomorrow on the BOM website. Many apps and news outlets also push alerts. For the most local view, check our Australia weather warnings page which aggregates all active warnings by state.

Issuing authorityBureau of Meteorology (BOM)
Warning levelsYellow (monitor), Orange (prepare), Red (act)
Common hazardsSevere storms, floods, cyclones, heatwaves
Lead timeTypically 30 minutes to several days
What’s the difference between a watch and a warning?

A watch means conditions are favourable for severe weather to develop, so you should stay alert. A warning means the hazard is occurring or imminent and you need to act immediately. Cyclone warnings usually follow a watch of 24–48 hours.

How often are warnings updated?

Warnings are updated as new data comes in – sometimes every ten minutes during a fast-moving storm. For severe weather warning Victoria tomorrow, BOM will refresh the forecast at least twice a day, more often if the situation changes.

Do I need to check warnings if I’m not in a storm zone?

Yes, because conditions can shift. For instance, a severe thunderstorm warning for one district can spread. Always monitor qld weather warnings today and severe weather warning Victoria today even if your suburb isn’t in the initial crosshair.

For the full picture of active advisories, visit our severe weather warning page or the main Australia weather hub.