Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula, Port Phillip waters and Western Local Warning Areas.

Issued at 5:47 pm Monday, 1 April 2024.

Severe thunderstorms have developed this afternoon near the Brisbane Ranges.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 5:35 pm, a severe thunderstorm likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding was detected near Balliang and Brisbane Ranges. This thunderstorm is moving towards the south. It is forecast to affect Lara, the area south of the Brisbane Ranges and the area west of Lara by 6:05 pm and Geelong City, Ocean Grove and the area south of Geelong City by 6:35 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.
* Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.