Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 7:42 pm Sunday, 24 December 2023.

Severe thunderstorms continue across the northwest and the central parts this evening.

Weather Situation: A developing surface low through western Victoria is generating thunderstorms through northwest Victoria and along the ranges this afternoon in a moist and unstable airmass.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the Northern Country and parts of the Central, Mallee, South West, North Central and Wimmera districts. Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Shepparton, Seymour, Maryborough, Kyneton and Bacchus Marsh.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Mallee district. Locations which may be affected include Murrayville.

St.Arnaud recorded 28 mm rainfall in the hour to 5:30 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.