Ferntree Gully has claimed the unenviable title of Victoria’s top severe weather hotspot over the past three years, according to new data released by insurer AAMI.
Analysis of thousands of natural disaster claims from July 2022 to June 2025 revealed the suburb has been hit hardest by wind, hail, and storms, with homes and businesses experiencing widespread damage alongside significant social and economic impacts.
Knox SES Unit Controller, Kristian Schouten said Ferntree Gully’s geography plays a big role in its vulnerability.
“Ferntree Gully sits at the base of the Dandenong Ranges, where weather systems often intensify as they move across the hills and valleys. The mix of dense vegetation, steep terrain, and older housing surrounded by large trees means the area is particularly exposed to damaging winds, falling branches, and flash flooding,” he said.
Mr Schouten also said a rise in short, intense storm cells has been tracking through the area in recent years.
AAMI’s research shows that Ferntree Gully, postcode 3156, leads the state’s severe weather rankings, followed by Rochester, Shepparton, Mulgrave, and Mornington.
The key drivers behind these claims were three major weather events: Victoria’s October 2022 rain and floods, the February 2024 storms and winds affecting both Victoria and New South Wales, and the November 2022 rain and floods.
While flooding hit Rochester, Shepparton, and Mooroopna hardest, Ferntree Gully and surrounding suburbs experienced high volumes of wind and hail claims, along with food spoilage due to power outages.
Mr Schouten said Knox SES has been proactive in preparing the community.
“We constantly run a community awareness campaign to help residents prepare before storms hit,” he said.
“We encourage people to clear gutters and drains, secure loose outdoor items, trim overhanging branches, and prepare an emergency plan and kit. Our volunteers are available 24/7 and ready to respond quickly when severe weather strikes.”
Mr Schouten said there are many preventable issues which contribute to storm damage.
“A lot of residents don’t maintain their trees and gutters, underestimate the risks of driving through floodwaters or standing under trees during storms, and often don’t have an emergency plan in place,” he said.
“Simple steps, like knowing how to contact family or having a torch ready during a power outage, can make a big difference.”
Food spoilage from power loss has been a notable problem, particularly in Ferntree Gully and Mulgrave according to the insurer’s data.
“We’ve been sharing practical advice on power outage preparation,” Mr Schouten said.
“Keep a small supply of non-perishable food, have an esky and ice bricks ready, avoid opening fridges and freezers unnecessarily, and ensure you have battery-powered lighting and radios.”
AAMI head of home product and portfolio, Josh Kelland said the data and seasonal forecast serve as a timely warning.
“Regardless of whether your suburb ranked number one or one hundred on our hotspots list, now is the time to prepare yourself, your family, and your home for the summer disaster season,” he said.
“Some regions in Victoria may be more used to wild weather, but Mother Nature can strike anywhere at any time. Tasks like trimming trees, clearing gutters, and inspecting your roof may seem small, but they could mean the difference between no claim at all, or a total loss.”
Mr Schouten urged the Ferntree Gully community to take the warnings seriously.
“Always be prepared. Storms can hit quickly, but a few simple steps like cleaning up your property, making an emergency plan, and staying informed can greatly reduce the risk to you and your family. Knox SES is always here to help, but the best defence is a prepared community. If it’s life-threatening, call 000. For storm or flood assistance, call 132 500.”
