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Wild weather to continue

25 Aug, 2009 01:31 AM
MORE than 40mm of rain could be dumped on Ballarat in the next seven days.

So far this month Ballarat has received just over 36mm of rain - well short of the average August rainfall of 74.6mm.

However, Bureau of Meteorology climate meteorologist for Victoria, Dr Harvey Stern, yesterday said reaching this target was still achievable.

"There were a number of cloud bursts (yesterday) but they were very short," he said.

"We're going to get showers for the next few days, so we could very well get to that average."

By 10pm yesterday Ballarat had received 6.8mm of rain since 9am.

The windy weather is expected to continue for the next few days before the turn of the season.

"We do expect a few days of windy conditions," Dr Stern said.

"There's a very deep low pressure system right over us at the moment and that's what is causing the winds, which are westerly across all of the southern two-thirds of the continent.

"Tuesday and Wednesday will be very similar to Monday, with wind, showers and even a chance of thunder, but it should ease up after that."

State Emergency Services mid-west regional duty officer Tony Grimme said units in Ballarat only attended one call yesterday but were bracing for worse today.

"Everyone is at a heightened state of awareness now," he said.

"Some of the wind gusts are expected to be 100kmh and a bit stronger in elevated areas."

Power outtages are expected for the next couple of days and Energy and Resources Minister Peter Batchelor has urged all Victorians to be prepared.

"It is important people are aware that strong winds and falling trees can bring down powerlines and cause localised power outages," he said.

Ballarat Health Services Base Hospital Emergency Department nursing unit manager Phil Catterson said the hospital often saw a spike in patients during the nasty weather.

"We often see an increase in accidents, with people not driving to the conditions," he said.

"We're working with other emergency organisation to raise awareness how important it is for people to be safe.

"Especially for the elderly and young, it's more important to stay inside."

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COLD AND WET: Commuters Abhinav Jangamareddy and Mary Werry try to keep dry as they head home from Ballarat Railway Station last night. Picture: Andrew Kelly
COLD AND WET: Commuters Abhinav Jangamareddy and Mary Werry try to keep dry as they head home from Ballarat Railway Station last night. Picture: Andrew Kelly

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