Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Central, North Central, West and South Gippsland and parts of East Gippsland, Northern Country, North East, Wimmera, Mallee and South West Forecast Districts.

Issued at 3:50 pm Tuesday, 24 February 2026.

Heavy rainfall extending into Gippsland, development possible over central this evening.

Weather Situation: Very high moisture links with a frontal system moving across the state today. Thunderstorms with heavy rainfall are extending eastwards into Gippsland into the Sale and Bairnsdale area this afternoon. Redevelopment of heavy rainfall remains possible through parts of Melbourne and central areas of the state this evening.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast for parts of central and eastern Victoria today, during the afternoon and evening. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 30 to 60 mm are possible, with higher falls to 70 mm about the ranges. Conditions are expected to ease during Wednesday morning.

Separate Flood Watches and/or Warnings may be current at the time of issue. Please refer to https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts/ for more information.

Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Melbourne, Traralgon and Bairnsdale.

26.8 mm was recorded at Glencairn in the 30 minutes to 3:12 pm.

22.2 mm was recorded at Konagaderra in the 30 minutes to 2:45 pm.

32.2 mm was recorded at Gisborne in the 1 hour 2:24 pm.

38.4 mm was recorded at Spring Hill in the 1 hour 15 minutes to 2:00 pm.

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.