UPDATE: A DIESEL shortage in Victoria is expected to last another several days.

Severe storms shut down diesel refineries last week, exacerbating the usual December shortages brought on by high demand from motorists and in the agricultural and transport sectors due to it being harvest season.

Service stations across Melbourne and regional areas ran out of fuel yesterday and today, with suppliers rationing some retailers to half their usual deliveries.

Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association chief executive Nic Moulis said the shortage would likely run for at least two more days.

Victoria Police has warned motorists driving diesel-powered vehicles to ensure they have enough fuel for the next few days.

Shell’s Geelong refinery, one of only two in Victoria, has had production problems since last Tuesday, reducing the state’s diesel supply by 50 per cent.

Police spokesman Senior Constable Adam West said there had been reports from country stations where people have arrived in town to refuel and found there was no diesel available.

"Victoria Police suggests that if you are travelling, make sure that you have enough fuel for a return journey,’’ Sen Constable West said.

"If you need to fill up your vehicle it is recommended that you call local suppliers or check the appropriate websites to ensure that they have diesel available."

Additional reporting: Herald Sun.