Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 4:08 pm Friday, 27 February 2026.

Severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall over parts of Victoria this afternoon. Large thunderstorm complex over western Central district with large hail.

Weather Situation: Slow-moving thunderstorms are continuing to develop in a very humid environment, bringing isolated heavy rainfall to parts of Victoria this afternoon.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Ballarat, Stawell, Hamilton, Bacchus Marsh, Ouyen and Bright.

A large thunderstorm complex over the western Central district likely producing large hail that may affect Ballan in the next hour or two.

Further thunderstorms are expected to develop across the central ranges and across western Victoria today with possible heavy rainfall.

24.2 mm was recorded at Tambo River (Swifts Creek) in the 30 minutes to 2:00 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.