Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 2:54 am Wednesday, 20 May 2020.

Gusty thunderstorms over central Victoria

Weather Situation:

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Yarra Glen, Morwell, Warragul, Moe and Mt Baw Baw.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the Mallee and Northern Country districts and the warning for these districts is CANCELLED.

Strongest wind gusts associated with Storms:

98km/h at Ballarat at 00:24am

87km/h at Kilmore Gap at 1:10am

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Be aware that trees that have been damaged by heat or fire may be unstable and more likely to fall when it is windy or wet.
* Check that loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured and 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.
* 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.
* Stay away from fallen powerlines always assume they are live.
* Stay informed monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency.