WEATHER BUREAU - SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR DAMAGING WIND, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES For people in the Central, East Gippsland, South West, North Central, West and South Gippsland and parts of the Northern Country, North East and Wimmera Forecast Districts. Issued at 4:35 pm Thursday, 16 January 2014. Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. In addition, large hail and heavy rainfall are possible with thunderstorms near the Otways and across parts of Gippsland. Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Ballarat, Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Geelong, Melbourne and Traralgon. The State Emergency Service advises that people should: * Keep clear of fallen power lines. * secure any loose objects in the vicinity of your home. * keep away from creeks and drains. * do not drive vehicles through flooded areas. * stay indoors if possible. * Avoid using the phone during the storm. * if you are outside, avoid sheltering under trees * listen to the radio for storm updates * switch off your computer and electrical appliances The next warning is due to be issued by 7:35 pm. For more information go to bom.gov.au/products/IDV65756.shtml L/S/C Brett Godden, Victoria Police Community Liaison Officer, Morwell
Posted on: Thu, 16 Jan 2014 07:49:42 +0000