12PM: NORTHERLY winds are gusting at up to 69 km/h in Ballarat as a storm front approaches from the north-west.
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The SES has already reported homes damaged in Geelong Road, Mt Clear, Wiltshire Lane, Delacombe and Invermay.
Trees have also fallen due to strong winds in Sebastopol, the Ballarat CBD and Learmonth Road.
The storm, predicted to bring heavy rain and thunder, is expected to hit within the next half hour.
EARLIER
THE weather bureau has warned of damaging winds and heavy rain across Victoria today.
The severe weather warning applies for people in the Wimmera, Northern Country, North Central, North East, South West, Central, West and South Gippsland and East Gippsland forecast districts.
A deep low pressure system is currently south west of Adelaide, with an associated low pressure trough just west of Victoria. This will cross Victoria today as the low passes to the south west, with strong to gale force northerly winds.
Damaging winds of around 60 to 70 km/h, with peak gusts of up to 110 km/h are forecasted to develop over parts of all Victorian districts except the Mallee. Elevated areas of these districts are most susceptible.
Widespread rainfall of up to 30mm, is forecasted for Victoria today and tomorrow, with high totals of 60 to 90mm across the North East ranges.
Isolated thunderstorms and heavy rain may lead to flash flooding over parts of the Northern Country, North Central and North East forecast districts late today.
A cold front will cross Victoria tomorrow, with a cold and unstable airstream across Victoria on Saturday.
State Emergency Service advice
- Move vehicles under cover or away from trees
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard or balcony
- Keep clear of fallen power lines
- Don't drive, walk or ride through flood water
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your SES Unit on 132 500
Victoria SES state commander Mark Cattell urged people to take simple precautions and monitor the situation closely.
He said volunteers and staff were on standby and monitoring the situation closely.
"In the meantime, there are simple precautions the community can take to defend against damage or injury should the worst happen," Mr Cattell said.
"Flash flooding can happen without warning and become dangerous very quickly, so it’s important to prepare ahead of time and have a plan.
“Simple precautions include checking gutters and downpipes for blockages, securing outdoor furniture and objects and having an emergency plan for your home, family and business.
“Don’t shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm, and if you can help it don’t park your car under on either- you could be in for a nasty surprise in the morning.”
