On January 16th, Melbourne experienced a remarkable weather event that stands out in its meteorological history. Back in 1985, the city was hit by a fierce thunderstorm that brought with it heavy rainfall and intense lightning. Over just a few hours, some suburbs received more than 50 mm of rain, leading to localized flooding and minor disruptions across the city. The storm’s energy was fueled by a warm, humid air mass, which collided with a cold front sweeping in from the south, creating the perfect conditions for such a dramatic sky show. What made this event particularly notable was not just its intensity but the rarity of such thunderstorms at this time of year. Melbourne’s summer tends to be hot and dry, yet this surprise storm served as a reminder of weather’s unpredictability. The lightning displays lit up the evening sky, providing a spectacular, if chaotic, natural spectacle for residents and weather enthusiasts alike. Looking back at that storm, it’s a vivid reminder that even during the warmest months, Melbourne’s weather can surprise us with sudden, powerful events. Just another way the skies keep us guessing — keeping our love for the weather alive and well.