Major flash flooding has again hit the state of Victoria overnight with Melbourne one of the worst affected areas reports WeatherWatch.co.nz.

Up to 174mm of rain fell in south east Melbourne in the past 24 hours, with most of that falling in just a few hours last night due to continuous severe thunderstorms, says a Bureau of Meteorology spokesman.

The rain event is being described by government officials as “another significant rain event” and has been officially declared as such to ensure full federal resources.

Numerous flood warnings and watches remain in places across Melbourne and other parts of Victoria as the deluge continues.

Thousands of calls of help have been called in overnight as flash floods engulfed cars and homes.  At least 40 car rescues have been made in Melbourne itself overnight and this morning.

The simple message from officials in a press conference just minutes ago was “please take care”. 

The State Control Centre says this is “another tough flood event” for the state to get through.

Torrential rain and severe thunderstorms have been sparked on the tail ends of two ex-cyclones that continue to push through parts of inland Australia.  Anthony, which made landfall in Queensland on Monday and of course Yasi which slammed the sunshine state on Wednesday.

Both systems are now affecting a large portion of central and southern Australia.

Australia’s severe weather worries aren’t ending soon either predicts WeatherWatch.co.nz as a record breaking heat wave continues to bake Sydney and New South Wales.

As of 10am local time it was already 36 degrees in Sydney at 38 degrees in Williamtown reports WeatherWatch.co.nz.  The hottest part of the day is still at least 4 hours away.

Officials have this morning declared a total fire ban in New South Wales with highs of 40 degrees and beyond expected today, especially in western Sydney.  Rolling black outs are also expected to hit the city today.

– WeatherWatch.co.nz