Severe storm delays racing at Flemington

Racing on Oaks day has been delayed at least half an hour with heavy rain and hail hitting Flemington racecourse.

Chief steward Terry Bailey said he had been told by the Bureau of Meteorology the severe weather and possible tornado hitting Melbourne was likely to bypass the racecourse.

"Safety is number one. We've got to look after the horses and the jockeys and also the public," Bailey said.