Alyssa Fritzlaff
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of the Latrobe Valley.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued the warning at 4.23pm today, listing Morwell, Traralgon and Moe as areas that may be affected.
The severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large, possibly giant hailstones, and heavy rainfall over the next several hours. Flash flooding may also occur.
Currently, the low pressure trough is moving in an easterly direction across the state.
Other areas that may be affected are Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne.
Currently the temperature in the Latrobe Valley is 27 degrees, with a low of 18 degrees expected overnight.
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.
The next warning is due to be issued by 7.25pm tonight.
