Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:56 am Wednesday, 17 January 2024.

Heavy rainfall developing across the northeast this afternoon.

Weather Situation: A very humid airmass drawn from the tropics is interacting with a cold front sweeping across the state today, leading to areas of heavy rainfall with embedded thunderstorms.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast for parts of the North East and far northern parts of Gippsland from late Wednesday morning. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 50 to 80 mm are likely.

A separate Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued if intense rainfall is detected within the warning area, though deemed unlikely at this stage.

Conditions are forecast to ease from the west later on Wednesday during the late afternoon and evening.

Locations which may be affected include Wodonga, Corryong, Bright, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller.

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.