TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
for DAMAGING WIND, LARGE HAILSTONES and HEAVY RAINFALL
For people in the Central, North Central and parts of the Northern Country, North East and West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts.
Issued at 3:22 pm Thursday, 23 August 2012.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Seymour, Geelong and Melbourne. There is also a slight risk of large hail and heavy rain with the thunderstorms.
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 6:25 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; or call 1300 659 217. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.