Secure the trampoline and baton down the hatches as the weather could get wild overnight.
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The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for residents in the Mallee, South West, Northern Country, North Central and Wimmera Forecast Districts at 7.30pm on Sunday evening.
The Bureau warned of damaging winds and heavy rainfall in the aforementioned regions as a severe thunderstorm moves across the state, with wind gusts of almost 100km/h recorded in Horsham at 7.13pm.
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Early today sections of the state were inundated with rain Casterton recording 10mm in nine minutes and Ballarat recording 22mm in the 30 minutes.
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.
- 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.
- Check that 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.
The next warning is due to be issued by 10.30pm.
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