Severe Thunderstorm Warning for HEAVY RAINFALL

Issued at 11:27 am Wednesday, 12 December 2018. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms developing Thursday morning - flash flooding may result.

For people in Central, South West, Northern Country, North Central, North East and parts of Mallee, West and South Gippsland and Wimmera Forecast Districts.

Weather Situation: A low-pressure trough will move slowly eastwards across Victoria during Thursday, deepening into a low-pressure system over central parts of the State.

Rain areas and thunderstorms are expected to develop across the warning area from the west during Thursday morning, with periods of heavy rainfall likely that may lead to flash flooding. Rainfall totals of 30 to 50mm are expected during the morning and afternoon - with locally higher totals in the 50 to 100mm range possible.

Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Bendigo, Shepparton, Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, Geelong, Melbourne, Wodonga and Wangaratta.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should: 
* Move vehicles under cover or away from trees. 
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony. 
* Keep clear of fallen power lines. 
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains. 
* Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water. 
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks. 
* Be alert that in areas recently affected by fires, heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads. 
* 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 Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 5:00 pm AEDT Wednesday.

CLICK HERE for live updates.

Warnings are also available through the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 217.