Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 5:18 pm Sunday, 8 February 2026.

Severe thunderstorms in parts of eastern Victoria and the central ranges this afternoon.

Weather Situation: A surface trough moves through Victoria today, with a trough lingering over the eastern ranges. These trigger thunderstorms in a moist, unstable airmass, giving rise to severe thunderstorms.

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, North Central and Wimmera districts. Locations which may be affected include Maryborough, Ballarat, Daylesford, Castlemaine and Kyneton.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the East Gippsland, West and South Gippsland and North East districts. Locations which may be affected include Dargo and Maffra.

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.