By Jamie Salter
Narre Warren SES says a thunderstorm that bypassed the City of Casey could have been disastrous following recent wind events.
The Narre Warren unit responded to seven calls for assistance throughout the day following an extreme weather warning issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for Wednesday 5 January.
Narre Warren State Emergency Service controller Damian Burns said the uncommon strong easterly breeze caused a fair amount of damage.
“It caused a number of trees down over roads and restricted access to property,” Mr Burns said.
“There was a wind event two and a half weeks ago, so we were readjusting tarps on old damage awaiting to be fixed.
“We were very lucky because we had predicted the storm cell would come over the City of Casey.
“You never know when it comes to a thunderstorm warning if you’re in the way, so we were on alert because we have to be ready.”
The unit responded with a reduced workforce due to the ongoing impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
In 2021, Narre Warren SES received 1,374 requests for assistance.
Mr Burns said SES volunteers were ready for a busy year ahead, particularly throughout the summer season.
“Our volunteer workforce is amazing,” he said.
“We have varied callouts and are often assisting police.
“Summer will be busy because we tend to assist CFA with some of their larger fire events.”
Victorians have been reminded to keep gutters and drains clear this summer and to peg down items such as umbrellas and trampolines to ensure they do not get blown away by the wind.
Mr Burns said people should also get to know their neighbours in case of an emergency.
“Knowing your neighbours helps keep you safe because they are often the first responders and are able to help before emergency services arrive,” he said.
