Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing and Werribee have been named among Victoria’s top 10 storm hot spots, according to data released by Suncorp Insurance.
More than 30,000 weather-related home insurance claims from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 were analysed to reveal the list, where Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing and Werribee were ranked five, six, and eight respectively.
Suncorp Insurance executive general manager home claims Alli Smith said the figures were a reminder to remain weather wise this summer, as the warmer months can still cause sudden storms and heavy rains.
“Victoria has been battered by numerous significant weather events over the past financial year, including strong winds [in] October 2021, severe rain and floods [in] December 2021 and damaging thunderstorms [in] January 2022,” Ms Smith said.
“The impact of storms and significant weather events on property can be severe.
“Our data shows that no one region is more prone to significant weather events, with our top ten storm-battered suburbs coming from four different regions, once again highlighting that severe storms and weather can strike anywhere.”
Ms Smith said she hoped the findings would encourage people to prepare their homes for unpredictable weather conditions.
“[It is important to ensure] you have done everything you can to strengthen your home’s resilience against the effects of mother nature.”
State Emergency Services (SES) recommend preparing for a storm by securing loose items in your yard, ensuring gutters, down-pipes and drains are kept clean to prevent blockages and trimming trees and branches that could fall on your home or property.
The SES also encourages people to create an emergency evacuation plan, and put together an emergency kit which includes a battery-powered radio, torch and spare batteries, that is easily accessible during emergencies.
Sunbury was ranked the top storm hotspot in Victoria according to the Suncorp Insurance data.
