TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
for DESTRUCTIVE WIND, FLASH FLOODING and LARGE HAILSTONES
For people in parts of the
Central,
Northern Country and
North Central s.
Issued at 4:00 pm Sunday, 7 November 2010.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce destructive winds, very heavy rainfall, flash flooding and large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Seymour, Kyneton, Melbourne, Frankston, Bacchus Marsh and Rosebud.
A severe thunderstorm has been observed on radar currently just to the southwest of Macedon. Hail to 2cm diameter and damaging wind gusts have been reported out of this storm. The storm is currently tracking towards the southeast. Further thunderstorms have also developed to the northeast of this storm and further storms may develop within the warning area.
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 7:00 pm.
If severe thunderstorms develop in the Melbourne Area, a more detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued to people in this area.
Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at
http://www.bom.gov.au" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; or call 1300 659 217. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.