An intense and devastating storm hit Central Victoria on Saturday 13 December and cast a weird yellow light, thrashing tree branches to the ground while overwhelming gutters and drains.

Folks across Facebook compared their rain gauge readings; though the downpour lasted no more than about 20 minutes in Maldon, there were reports of 24mm (Ireland Street) up to 30mm (near Reef Street) and more.

In Tarrengower, Anne-Maree McComb described the destruction: “It took out trees in a straight line over around 800 metres as well as the roof of our house, spreading debris over about 250 metres,” she said. “We were watching two storm fronts colliding and a mini tornado circling in our back yard when our back verandah was ripped off, taking the whole roof of the house with it.”

The storm was scary for residents across the region, but that sounds particularly terrifying. Happily, Anne-Maree confirmed that all “…humans, dogs, cats, horses, cows and sheep are safe.” And if you look closely at her photo — used with permission — you will see a rainbow.

Best of luck to everyone cleaning up and for the rest of us, it is a reminder to clear all drains.

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 19 December 2025.