POTENTIALLY damaging winds, heavy rain and large hailstones have been forecast to hit much of Gippsland this evening while a fire weather warning will remain in place tomorrow.
Pictured: the thunderstorm warning area map released by the BoM.
FOR 17 JAN 2014 WARNING: Another severe thunderstorm warning for West Gippsland
ADVERTISEMENT
UPDATE (16 Jan 2014, 2335): the severe thunderstorm warning has been cancelled but the fire weather warning remains in place.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned people in West Gippsland to expect a thunderstorm to develop over parts of the region over the next few hours.
A wind gust of 100km/h was recorded at Kilmore Gap this afternoon.
The bureau is also forecasting the continuation of a severe fire danger period into tomorrow for the West Gippsland forecast district. The total fire ban will remain in place across the state.
ADVERTISEMENT
The hot and dry weather has been caused by a high pressure system in the Tasman Sea, but a change is expected by tomorrow night.
The State Emergency Service has issued the following advice for those facing tonight’s storm:
- 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
For updates visit the BoM’s warnings website.
