Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for North East Victoria: Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flooding Possible

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning (IDV21033) for heavy rainfall. This alert is classified as a top priority for immediate broadcast and was issued at 8:53 am on Thursday, 19 March 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning covers parts of the North East Forecast District in Victoria, specifically focusing on areas near the New South Wales border. Key locations that may be affected include Wodonga and Corryong.

Expected Conditions

Slow-moving showers and thunderstorms are currently developing over northeast Victoria. These storms are likely to produce locally heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding within the warning area over the next several hours. In areas previously affected by fire, rainfall run-off may contain debris such as ash, soil, and rocks, increasing the risk of landslides and debris across roads.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 8:53 am on Thursday, 19 March 2026. The current alert is expected to remain in effect until approximately 11:54 am local time, with the next official update scheduled for release by 11:55 am.

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Travel Safety: Avoid travel if possible. If driving conditions become dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, and low-lying areas.
• Avoid Hazards: Stay away from floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads, and fallen trees.
• Secure Property: Check that loose items, such as outdoor settings, umbrellas, and trampolines, are safely secured. Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
• Stay Indoors: Remain indoors and away from windows. If caught outdoors, move to a safe place inside and stay away from drains, gutters, creeks, and waterways.
• Powerlines: Stay away from fallen powerlines and always assume they are live.
• Stay Informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts, and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website or through the VicEmergency website and app.