Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 5:06 am Sunday, 1 March 2026.

HEAVY, LOCALLY INTENSE RAINFALL POSSIBLE IN THE WEST.

Weather Situation: Moist northeasterly flow on the southeastern flank of a low in central Australia is expected to lead to the development of a broad region of rain with embedded thunderstorms. Rain rates may ease for a period during the day today, before increasing overnight and into Monday with the approach of a cold front.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast for parts of the Mallee, Wimmera, South West and western portions of the Northern Country, North Central and Central forecast districts from this morning, becoming more likely from late Sunday evening. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 30 to 50 mm are possible.

Locally INTENSE RAINFALL which may lead to DANGEROUS AND LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODING is also possible over the western Mallee and northwest Wimmera tonight, however is more likely from late Sunday evening. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 50 to 70 mm are possible.

Locations which may be affected include Mildura, Horsham, Warrnambool, Maryborough, Swan Hill and Stawell.

Flood Watches and Warnings are current for the area. Please refer to https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts/ for more information.

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.