Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 11:55 am Friday, 18 October 2024.

Heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts with severe thunderstorms over western and central Victoria.

Weather Situation: A deep low pressure system situated over southwestern Victoria is moving eastwards across southern Victoria, with a warm and humid airmass ahead of it, supporting the development of severe thunderstorms today.

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

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging wind gusts over the next several hours in the Northern Country and parts of the North Central, North East, Central and Mallee districts. Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Echuca, Shepparton, Euroa, Rochester and Seymour.

22.8 mm was recorded at Wooloomanata in 60 minutes to 10:00 am

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.