THE Wimmera is experiencing its first real taste of summer with temperatures in the mid to high 30s across the region.
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A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the Wimmera.
There are also fires popping up throughout the region.
There is a small grass fire on Polkemmet Road near Natimuk, about 50 hectares in size.
There is also a fire about 19 kilometres north-west of Hopetoun.
Nhill reached a maximum temperature of 37.7 degrees at 2.06pm on Wednesday, making it the town's hottest day since March 1.
In Horsham, the temperature reached 36.3 at 3.21pm.
Warracknabeal and Longerenong joined Horsham in recording their hottest days since April 1.
The mercury topped 36 in many parts of the region.
In the Mallee, Ouyen reached 37.9 and Hopetoun topped 37.6 on Wednesday.
The Bureau of Meterology warns that severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in Horsham, Stawell, Warracknabeal and Ararat.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Keep clear of fallen power lines.
- Secure any loose objects in the vicinity of your home.
- 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
It is hard to believe we were still in 'double doona' territory as recently as Friday, when the overnight low dropped to minus 0.3.
The warm conditions will continue into the weekend with 29 forecast for Horsham on Thursday 29, 32 on Friday, 28 on Saturday and 29 on Sunday.
On Monday, the region is set for a return to some more traditional spring weather as maximum temperatures drop to the low 20s.
