Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 6:03 pm Friday, 24 November 2023.
Severe thunderstorms possible through northern and western Victoria.

Weather Situation: A strong upper disturbance centred to the west of Victoria is driving thunderstorm activity, with severe thunderstorms possible.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones over the next several hours in parts of the Northern Country and Mallee districts. Locations which may be affected include Echuca and Rochester.

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

Observations to 4:00pm include:
65.2mm in 6 hours at Pigick Comparison
59.6mm in 6 hours at Mcneils Bridge
54.2mm in 6 hours at Kanagulk AWS
50.8mm in 6 hours at Hillview NYPO

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.