Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in North Central and parts of Central, Northern Country and North East Forecast Districts.

Issued at 10:56 am Wednesday, 13 October 2021.

ISOLATED HEAVY FALLS WITH RAIN AND STORMS TONIGHT

Weather Situation: A trough bringing a band of rain over Victoria will intensify this evening as it crosses Central Victoria

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING may develop early this evening on and north of the central ranges, and then may extend into the northern plains and the northeast later tonight.

HEAVY RAINFALL is most likely to be associated with thunderstorms embedded within the rain band.

Rainfall rates ease in the early hours of Thursday, with the risk of heavy rain easing before dawn.

Locations which may be affected include Shepparton, Seymour, Kyneton, Ballarat, Wodonga and Wangaratta.

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.