Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Port Phillip waters, Western Port, Mornington Peninsula and Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula Local Warning Areas.

Issued at 4:48 pm Friday, 4 October 2024.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 4:50 pm, severe thunderstorms likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds were detected near Geelong City, Queenscliff and Sutherland Creek. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east to southeast. They are forecast to affect Lara, Rosebud and Sorrento by 5:20 pm and Flinders, northern parts of the Bellarine Peninsula and the area east of Rosebud by 5:50 pm.

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.
* Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.