Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:08 pm Friday, 5 February 2021.

Weather Situation:
A cold front and a pre-frontal trough are tracking east across the state. The pre-frontal trough is slow-moving, and will combine with tropical moisture to produce severe thunderstorms across central and eastern parts of the State this afternoon and evening.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds. Large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding are both possible with storms in the warning area over the next several hours. . Locations which may be affected include Euroa, Yarrawonga, Wodonga, Wangaratta, Bright, Mansfield, Warragul, Moe, Mt Baw Baw, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
* Be alert that in areas recently affected by fires, heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
* 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.
* 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 website/app/hotline.