Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 2:40 pm Sunday, 24 December 2023.

Severe thunderstorms continue to develop this afternoon in the west and the Macedon Ranges.

Weather Situation:
An upper trough and a moist air mass are generating severe thunderstorms this afternoon and into the evening.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Warracknabeal, St Arnaud, Castlemaine, Kyneton and Daylesford.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the South West district and the warning for this district 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.