A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the Wimmera, parts of the Mallee, Central, North Central, South West, Northern Country, West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts, with damaging winds also possible with overnight storms.
A cold front is crossing the state overnight tonight bringing damaging winds to the above districts, with damaging wind gusts possible in thunderstorms over the next several hours.
Gusts up to 90km/h are possible in storms which may affect locations including Horsham, Warrnambool, Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne.
The risk of severe thunderstorms should become negligible by around 4 am.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
Be aware that trees that have been damaged by heat or fire may be unstable and more likely to fall when it is windy or wet.
Check that any loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured and 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.
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.
Stay away from fallen powerlines always assume they are live.
Stay informed monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency.
Above - A display of lightning near Jeparit in April 2016.
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