Tornado suspected in Melbourne’s west after Sunday’s destructive winds

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Residents in Melbourne’s west were left stunned after powerful winds — likely from a tornado — tore through suburbs on Sunday afternoon, leaving a trail of destruction.

The State Emergency Service (SES) received more than 650 calls for help, with reports of trees uprooted, roofs damaged, and trampolines sent flying.

Werribee locals described scenes of chaos. “It ripped off my pergola like a tin of sardines,” said one resident, while another said the wind was so strong it “nearly blew me back” when opening the door.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is investigating whether the storm was indeed a tornado, after radar and social media footage showed a clear damage path across western suburbs.

Meteorologist David Crock said the storm’s track and intensity strongly suggest a tornado — an uncommon event for Victoria. He noted that while Laverton’s weather station recorded 48 km/h gusts, the wind in Wyndham was likely far stronger, possibly reaching 90–120 km/h.

The storm developed rapidly as it moved into metropolitan areas, prompting severe weather warnings on Sunday afternoon.

SES volunteers and emergency crews spent Monday clearing debris and assisting residents. Despite the widespread damage, there were no reports of uninhabitable homes.

Stay up to date with warnings and recovery updates via VicEmergency.

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