UPDATE - 1.30pm:
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THE Bureau of Meteorology extended its warning area on Saturday afternoon to include most of western Victoria.
Temperatures were still in the mid to high twenties with no rain recorded across the region since 9am.
EARLIER - 11am:
PARTS of western Victoria are included in the latest warnings issued by the Bureau of Meteorology on Saturday.
A high to the south is directing a moist easterly flow over Victoria while a trough over the west of the state is currently deepening and developing multiple low centres.
This trough is expected to continue developing over western Victoria this morning then move east during this afternoon and evening.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.
Locations which may be affected include Stawell, Ararat, Maryborough, Ballarat, Mildura and Swan Hill.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
- Be alert that in areas recently affected by fires, heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
The next warning is due to be issued by 1:30 pm.
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