Prepare for severe weather

Thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds are predicted across Yarra Ranges later today. (File)

Severe weather from thunderstorms, heavy rain to strong winds is expected across Yarra Ranges later today (20 March).

These conditions can increase the risk of trees falling on powerlines, causing power outages.

AusNet is sharing some tips to help locals be power prepared:

Life support customers, please be ready to activate your emergency plan. Call AusNet’s priority line anytime on 1800 818 832.

If you’re in immediate danger, call 000. For emergency services, call the SES on 13 25 00.

Keep away from fallen or damaged powerlines, assume all wires are live.

Report faults and emergencies on 13 17 99.

Look out for fallen trees and debris and never enter floodwaters.

Have battery operated torches and radios in a place easy to access – keep spare batteries handy too.

Charge your battery packs so they’re ready to power your mobile phones.

If you have an electric water pump, stock up on bottled water.

Make sure you can open your garage or fence manually so you can leave your home if the power goes out.

Fill an esky with ice in to keep your food and drinks cool.

Keep some cash on hand in case electronic payment systems go down during an outage.

If your power goes out, check Outage Tracker for latest restoration times: outagetracker.com.au

Please stay safe and share this information with friends and family.