Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 3:54 pm Sunday, 23 February 2025.

Severe storms with damaging wind gusts have contracted to eastern parts of the State.

Weather Situation: Severe thunderstorms continue in the warm and unstable atmosphere ahead of a cold front that is now moving into the eastern half of the State. Thunderstorms are fast moving towards the east and southeast and are expected to continue over parts of Gippsland and the Northeast district throughout the afternoon.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Wangaratta, Bright, Morwell, Traralgon, Warragul, Sale, Moe, Yarram, Falls Creek and Mt Hotham.

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

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.