Summer Bay is anything but calm in Home and Away episode 8651, Part 1, as Thursday’s instalment opens the door to one of the most emotionally charged days

the community has faced in weeks. Old wounds are reopened, private fears resurface, and one storyline takes a worrying turn that leaves viewers bracing for what’s to come.

At the centre of the episode is Leah, whose fragile state of mind becomes impossible to ignore. After weeks of emotional strain, Leah is clearly struggling—

but she’s determined not to let anyone see just how close she is to breaking. Those around her sense something is wrong, yet Leah insists she has everything under control. The truth, however, is far more unsettling. Her internal battle plays out in quiet moments that speak volumes, hinting that she may be standing on the edge of a life-altering decision.

Justin tries to be her anchor, but his concern only seems to heighten Leah’s defensiveness. Their scenes are heavy with tension, as love clashes with fear and misunderstanding. Justin knows Leah is shutting him out—but whether it’s to protect herself or protect him remains unclear. The emotional distance between them grows, setting up a painful clash that feels inevitable.

Meanwhile, Levi and Mackenzie begin to sense that something is deeply wrong—and, true to form, they don’t stay on the sidelines for long. Their concern quickly turns into involvement, and while their intentions may be good, their approach is anything but subtle. The episode hints that their interference could soon backfire, stirring up emotions they aren’t prepared to handle.

Elsewhere in the Bay, Tane and Jo attempt to focus on their relationship, but cracks are already forming beneath the surface. What should be a moment of closeness is overshadowed by doubt and unspoken questions. Tane appears distracted, burdened by responsibilities and expectations that are pulling him in different directions. Jo, meanwhile, begins to sense that she may not be getting the whole truth—and that realization leaves her quietly shaken.

Part 1 of episode 8651 excels at building atmosphere rather than delivering instant explosions. The tension is slow-burning, unsettling, and deeply emotional. Conversations feel loaded. Silences feel dangerous. Every interaction carries the sense that something is about to go wrong—and soon.

The episode closes on an ominous note, with Leah alone and visibly overwhelmed, her next move impossible to predict. The final moments are deliberately ambiguous, leaving viewers questioning whether she’s about to ask for help—or disappear entirely.

With fear tightening its grip on Summer Bay and multiple relationships teetering on the brink, Home and Away episode 8651 Part 1 sets the stage for a devastating chain of events. This is only the beginning—and by the time Thursday’s story unfolds fully, nothing will be the same again.