Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 11:33 am Tuesday, 26 December 2023.
Severe thunderstorms developing around central parts of Victoria.

Weather Situation: A low pressure system over southern New South Wales is drawing rich moisture and an unstable airmass over Victoria.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the North Central and parts of the Central, Northern Country, North East, South West and West and South Gippsland districts. Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Castlemaine, Kyneton and Bright.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the West and South Gippsland district. Locations which may be affected include Morwell.

75mm was recorded at East Sale in 3 hours to 8:15 am
53.2 mm was recorded at Balook in 2 hours to 7:19 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.