Atmospheric -often referred to as barometric- pressure has dropped rapidly in Kinglake and surrounds, with Kinglake currently at 999.5 hectopascals (hPa), down from 1004.5 hPa at 3pm.
Rapid drops in barometric pressure often indicate severe weather, with the latest Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) chart showing thunderstorms may impact the outskirts of the north central forecast district, including the Kinglake Ranges.
The change is clearly on it’s way as the fog rolls in across Kinglake and the Ganglehoff hill, though the fog is adding to the humidity.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued a warning at 4:34 pm, Monday, 29 January 2018 for people in parts of Central, East Gippsland, South West, North Central and West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts.
Weather Situation:
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Maryborough, Ballarat, Melbourne, Wonthaggi, Bacchus Marsh and Bairnsdale.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Don’t drive, ride or walk through flood water.
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
* Be alert that in areas recently affected by fires, heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
* Stay indoors if possible.
* Avoid using the phone during the storm.
* If you are outside, avoid sheltering under trees
* Listen to the radio for storm updates
* Switch off your computer and electrical appliances
The BoM will issue the next warning by 7:35pm.
If severe thunderstorms develop in Melbourne a more detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning will also be issued.
Currently (6pm) it’s 22.1 degrees Celcius at 86 per cent humidity in Kinglake.
