Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 4:06 pm Sunday, 2 February 2025.

Severe thunderstorms move east over Phillip Island, new development in the northwest.

Weather Situation: Severe thunderstorms are occurring over Phillip Island now, heading east southeast into Gippsland. Thunderstorms are now developing over the Mallee and Wimmera with the potential to bring damaging wind gusts.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the West and South Gippsland and Central districts. Locations which may be affected include Wonthaggi.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Mallee, Wimmera and South West districts. Locations which may be affected include Ouyen, Rainbow, Walpeup, Horsham, Warracknabeal and Nhill.

In fire affected areas heavy rainfall increases the risk of debris flows, runoff may carry ash, soil, rocks and vegetation onto roads and tracks and into waterways.

2cm hailstones were observed at Tootgarook around 2:30 pm.

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.