Mass flood warnings issued as Victoria braces for thunderstorms, pouring rain

Powerful thunderstorms could cause flash flooding on Tuesday, as much of Victoria braces for intense rain.

Melbourne and parts of central Victoria could experience 40–70 millilitres of rain in six hours, prompting the Bureau of Meteorology to issue a severe weather warning.

A low-pressure weather system over the Northern Territory has drawn up tropical moisture into the air over central parts of the country, which will push south-east and “could lead to flash flooding, including across the Melbourne metro area,” said meteorologist Angus Hines.

The Yarra and Maribyrnong rivers are among those which could be subjected to isolated and moderate flooding from Tuesday night.

Authorities are unsure of the location and timing of the heaviest rainfall, but “rapid creek and river level rises and flash flooding are possible in areas that receive the heaviest rainfall”.

Severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and flash flooding can be dangerous, and the State Emergency Service advises people to avoid travel if possible, and to be aware of falling trees, floodwaters and fallen powerlines.

Hines said flash flooding could also force road closures and damage agricultural land, but was beneficial in the recovery from recent bushfires.

“Rainfall over agricultural areas in the south [of Australia] has brought some welcome relief, particularly for parts of … Victoria, which are still facing long-term rainfall deficiencies after a very dry summer so far. Rainfall is also welcome over the south-east, where fires have impacted communities, and the rain is assisting firefighters with their ongoing efforts.”

Areas recently scorched by bushfires are more susceptible to flash flooding, as burnt soil does not absorb water, which means runoff can happen unexpectedly.

SES Victoria chief officer operations Alistair Drayton said early preparation was the best defence for severe weather.

“If severe weather is impacting your area, consider delaying travel where possible and staying indoors until conditions improve,” he said. “Never drive through floodwater.”

The rain forecast today follows flash flooding in Wodonga on Sunday, where about 90 calls for assistance were made to the SES.