Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Wimmera and parts of Mallee and South West Forecast Districts.

Issued at 2:28 pm Monday, 1 April 2024.

Heavy falls developing in the West

Weather Situation: an upper trough approaching from the west and a very moist airmass are producing scattered thunderstorms over Western Victoria. Thunderstorms and rain areas are expected to gradually shift east throughout the day.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Murrayville, Rainbow, Horsham, Stawell, Warracknabeal and Edenhope.

A separate Severe Weather Warning for heavy rainfall and damaging winds is also current for Central and Northeast parts of the state. See http://www.bom.gov.au/vic/warnings/

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.