Severe thunderstorms set to bring damaging winds to wide area of Victoria including Melbourne, Ballarat, Geelong and Mildura

Victoria is set to be lashed by damaging winds this afternoon, with a severe thunderstorm warning issued by the Bureau of Meteorology.

The bureau has warned areas including Melbourne, Mildura, Horsham, Ballarat, Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough and Geelong may be affected.

Do you have photos or video of today's storm? Send them to contact@9news.com.au but please stay safe.

Full warning from the Bureau of Meteorology:

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Mildura, Horsham, Ballarat, Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Geelong and Melbourne. 

The State Emergency Service advises that people should: 
* Keep clear of fallen power lines. 
* secure any loose objects in the vicinity of your home. 
* 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 next warning is due to be issued by 6:00 pm.

If severe thunderstorms develop in the Melbourne Area, a more detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued to people in this area.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 217. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.