Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 1:45 pm Friday, 28 January 2022.

Severe thunderstorms are affecting the southwestern parts of Greater Melbourne

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 1:40 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Brisbane Ranges, the area southeast of Ballarat and the area north of Meredith. These thunderstorms are moving towards the southeast. They are forecast to affect Lara, the area west of Lara and the area west of Werribee by 2:10 pm and Werribee, the area south of Bacchus Marsh and the area south of Werribee by 2:40 pm.

Damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding are likely.

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.