Heavy rain, storms and flash flooding are expected in Central Victoria today (Tuesday, February 24th) with the Bureau of Meteorology having issued a severe weather warning for parts of the region.
Bendigo, Castlemaine, Kyneton and Heathcote will be the hardest-hit areas.
Up to 40 millimetres, or a month’s worth of rain is forecast to fall in Bendigo, while six-hour totals of 70mm could impact elevated regions of the state.
The conditions have come about due to a trough crossing Victoria, which has combined with a low-pressure system in central Australia to bring tropical moisture southward.
Ahead of the wet weather, the State Emergency Service (SES) has issued the following advice:
- Avoid travel if possible. If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater.
- Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
- Be aware that 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.
Central Victorians can stay up-to-date by following the latest warnings on the Bureau’s website, or the VicEmergency site.
