Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in North Central, North East and parts of Central, East Gippsland, Northern Country and West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts.

Issued at 5:32 pm Saturday, 26 February 2022.

LOCALLY INTENSE FALLS DEVELOPING IN PARTS OF CENTRAL VICTORIA.

Weather Situation:
A deep, moist easterly flow across Victoria is resulting in humid and unstable conditions, a slow moving upper trough is further assisting instability across the State. Slow moving thunderstorms with possible heavy falls may develop across parts of north and east Victoria this afternoon and evening.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the North Central, North East and parts of the Central, East Gippsland, Northern Country and West and South Gippsland districts. Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Seymour, Castlemaine, Kyneton, Wangaratta and Falls Creek.

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 Northern Country and North Central districts. Locations which may be affected include Euroa and Seymour.

Rainfall Observations:

38.2mm at Bridge Creek

51mm at Yarck

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.