Heavy rain, thunderstorms and power outages have spread across parts of Victoria on Sunday, with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issuing a severe thunderstorm warning for eastern parts of the state.

Flash flooding was seen across parts of the Melbourne CBD after strong rain hit the city this morning.

The rain halted play at the Australian Open, where the BOM recorded 24.6mm of rain in a 30-minute period to 12:45pm. 

A person walks in front of Australian Open signage wearing a rain coat and holding an umbrella.

Strong rain that swept across Melbourne has affected play at the Australian Open. (AAP: Joel Carrett)

Heavy rain and winds have been recorded in the state’s east, with Stradbroke West recording 29mm of rain to 3pm. A 91kph wind gust was recorded in East Sale at 3:04pm

A severe thunderstorm warning for the Melbourne area was issued by the BOM on Sunday afternoon, but has since been cancelled.

People walk outside of Rod Laver Arena as rain falls and some people wear ponchos and carry umbrellas.

Spectators turned to ponchos and umbrellas to stay dry at the Australian Open. (ABC News: Patrick Rocca)

“Severe thunderstorms are no longer affecting the Melbourne area,” the BOM said.

“The immediate threat of severe thunderstorms has passed, but the situation will continue to be monitored and further warnings will be issued if necessary.”

A driving through minor flooding in the Melbourne CBD.

Flash flooding was seen at the intersection of Russell and Lonsdale streets in the Melbourne CBD. (ABC News)

As of 4pm there were more than 8,000 customers experiencing power outages across Victoria.

A severe thunderstorm warning for heavy rainfall, damaging winds and large hailstones is in place for the West and South Gippsland districts and parts of the Central, East Gippsland, North East and North Central districts.

The BOM said Wangaratta, Bright, Morwell, Traralgon, Sale and Maffra could be affected by the storms.

A map of Victoria from the BOM showing a warning zone for eastern parts of Victoria.

The BOM has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for eastern parts of Victoria. (Supplied: BOM)

The State Emergency Service (SES) has received 161 requests for assistance since midnight. Its busiest units have been in Foostscray, Malvern and Moorabbin, a spokesperson said.

The SES has advised people to avoid travel where possible if the conditions are dangerous and to stay safe by avoiding hazards such as floodwater, damaged roads and fallen trees.

Storms hit Australian Open

Spectators have had to run for cover at the Australian Open during the tournament’s first day of play.

An empty court at the Australian Open is seen with rain and small puddles across it.

Play on outside courts at Melbourne Park was suspended due to rain. (Supplied)

Heavy rain at Melbourne Park has resulted in match delays, with organisers announcing there would be no action on outside courts before 5:30pm (AEDT).

Play has been able to continue under the roofs of Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and John Cain Arena.



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