Updated, 4.30pm:
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Humid air is being drawn into a trough in the far west of Victoria, with an upper trough further west also providing good support for thunderstorm development.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the South West and Wimmera districts. Locations which may be affected include Edenhope and Hamilton.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Mallee and Wimmera districts. Locations which may be affected include Mildura, Ouyen, Rainbow, Walpeup, Warracknabeal and Nhill.
Edenhope Airport recorded 25.8mm of rainfall in an hour to about 4:15pm.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* 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.
* Be aware - heat, fire or recent storms may make trees unstable and more likely to fall when it's windy or wet.
* Check that loose items, such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured. 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.
* Stay away from fallen powerlines - always assume they are live.
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks. Heavy rainfall may also increase the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
* Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.
Earlier:
JANUARY is throwing all sorts of weather this week.
From warm, dry days over 35°C to thunderstorms.
Monday saw a top of 37°C in Horsham before more humid weather hit the area on Thursday, January 13.
IN OTHER NEWS:
On Thursday, VicEmergency issued a thunderstorm warning for the Wimmera area at 2.30pm.
It is likely to bring damaging winds for Rainbow and Nhill.
There is a chance severe thunderstorms Thursday, January 13 and Friday, January 14.
At this stage there is only a low risk of epidemic asthma thunderstorms.
Stawell and Horsham areas have already seen multiple spot fires from lightning strikes.
Thursday evening will see an easing of easterly winds 20 to 25 km/h tending northeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.
Friday will see a top of 32°C and a chance of severe thunderstorms in the morning.
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