Severe thunderstorms are set to hit the north-west of Melbourne, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting damaging winds and hailstones.

The storm is affecting Sunbury and the area east of Sunbury, and is moving towards the northeast. They are forecast to affect Whittlesea and the area west of Whittlesea by 4:35 pm.

The State Emergency Service  advised people to keep clear of fallen power lines, secure any loose objects in the vicinity of their home and stay indoors.

Residents were also advised to avoid using the phone during the storm, as well as switch off computer and electrical appliances.

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Those caught outside should avoid sheltering under trees.

SES has urged people in the affected areas to listen to the radio for storm updates 

Thunderstorms are also expected to hit North Central, Wimmera and parts of the Central, East Gippsland, Mallee, South West, Northern Country, North East and West and South Gippsland districts.

More to come