Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 6:36 pm Saturday, 3 January 2026.

Severe storms continue in Gippsland, but will ease in over the coming hours into the evening.

Weather Situation: A moist and unstable airmass is producing severe thunderstorms through parts of Gippsland, which are slowly moving to the east and southeast, before an easing trend is expected during 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 Seymour, Yarram, Cann River, Chandlers Creek, Combienbar and Gelantipy.

2cm hail was observed at Rawson at approximately 4:00 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.