Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Central and parts of North Central and West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts.

Issued at 6:25 am Thursday, 27 January 2022.

INTENSE RAIN IS OCCURRING WITH SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS IN CENTRAL VICTORIA

Weather Situation: A very humid, unstable airmass will support continued thunderstorm activity through parts of the state. An upper trough will support thunderstorms through the entire overnight period.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the Central and parts of the North Central and West and South Gippsland districts. Locations which may be affected include Kyneton, Geelong, Melbourne, Wonthaggi, Bacchus Marsh and Moe.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Central district. Locations which may be affected include Kyneton and Bacchus Marsh.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the South West district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

Malmsbury Headwall recorded 56.2mm in the 60 minutes to 5:15am.

Springhill-Tylden Road recorded 23mm in 30 minutes to 5:45am.

Trentham Reservoir recorded 38.6mm in 60 minutes to 6:00am.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater. Avoid travel if possible.
* Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
* Be aware - heat, fire or recent storms may make trees unstable and more likely to fall when it's windy or wet.
* Check that loose items, such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured. Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
* Stay indoors and away from windows.
* If outdoors, move to a safe place indoors. Stay away from trees, drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
* Stay away from fallen powerlines - always assume they are live.
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks. Heavy rainfall may also increase the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
* Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.