Severe weather warning issued for Tuesday

Heavy rainfall and strong winds will continue to hit the Outer East this morning. Picture: ON FILE

VicEmergency has issued a severe weather warning for people in North East and parts of Central, East Gippsland, North Central, West and South Gippsland and Northern Country Forecast Districts, which includes large parts of the Yarra Ranges.

Heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts are continuing about parts of Victoria this morning, following yesterday’s storm.

A cold front and associated rainband moving across Victoria will continue to produce heavy falls over central and eastern districts on Tuesday morning particularly with isolated thunderstorms.

Heavy rainfall which may lead to flash flooding is forecast with thunderstorms and areas of rain this morning. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 30 to 50mm are likely, with isolated falls of 70mm to 80mm possible.

Close to home, Ferny Creek has recorded the highest rainfall throughout the state since 9am on Monday 1 April with 75mm, while Scoresby also recorded 64mm.

The Victoria 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.