Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Northern Country, North Central and parts of Central, Mallee, North East and Wimmera Forecast Districts.

Issued at 10:22 am Thursday, 28 January 2021.
HEAVY RAINFALL ON FRIDAY

Weather Situation: A deepening low pressure trough will cross Victoria on Friday, and combine with an infeed of tropical moisture from the upper atmosphere which will result in statewide rainfall and thunderstorms on Friday.

HEAVY RAINFALL developing on FRIDAY which may lead to FLASH FLOODING.
Rain will develop in the early hours of Friday in Western Victoria and extend eastwards into the warning area during the morning. Widespread totals of 30 to 60mm are expected in the warning area during the day, with isolated heavier falls of 80 to 90mm possible. The heaviest falls are more likely to be experienced with thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening.
Rain will tend to showers and thunderstorms during Friday evening, easing before dawn on Saturday morning.

Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Seymour, Maryborough, Wodonga and Wangaratta.

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.