Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 1:29 pm Tuesday, 26 December 2023.
Severe thunderstorms ongoing through central and northeastern parts of Victoria.

Weather Situation: A low pressure system over southern New South Wales is drawing rich moisture and an unstable airmass over Victoria, with severe thunderstorms ongoing this afternoon.

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 Maryborough, Castlemaine, Kyneton, Ballarat, Melbourne and Bacchus Marsh.

45.5 mm recorded at Yanakie in 2 hours to 11:45 am.
40.8 mm was recorded at Traralgon South in 2 hours to 11:45 am
75mm was recorded at East Sale in 3 hours to 8:15 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.