Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Wimmera and parts of East Gippsland, Mallee and Northern Country Forecast Districts.

Issued at 5:06 pm Monday, 28 February 2022.

Severe storms in the northwest and far east

Weather Situation: Severe thunderstorms are continuing in northwestern parts of the state in a humid airmass supported by an upper cut-off low over South Australia. Thunderstorms are also forming across central and eastern parts.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the Wimmera and parts of the Mallee and Northern Country districts. Locations which may be affected include Swan Hill, Rainbow, Kerang, Horsham, Warracknabeal and Echuca.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the East Gippsland district. Locations which may be affected include Cann River, Combienbar and Bonang.

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.