MELBOURNE, VIC. — A broad surface trough and deepening low-pressure system is moving through the state today. Scattered severe thunderstorms continue to move through the central districts and will reach the eastern districts in the coming hours.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding, damaging winds and large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Shepparton, Seymour, Wodonga, Wangaratta, Traralgon, Echuca, Sale, Bright and Warragul.
Recent observations include:
35.4 mm was recorded at Tolmie in the 1 hour to 2:52 pm.
25.8 mm was recorded at Archerton in the 30 minutes to 2:38 pm.
27.4 mm was recorded at Warrenbayne in the 30 minutes to 1:53 pm.
47.4 mm was recorded at Marysville Golf Course in the 3 hours to 1:45 pm.
94 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Hotham at 12:55 pm.
93 km/h wind gust was recorded at Falls Creek at 11:16 am.
Safety advice
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 the VicEmergency website/app/hotline.
