A severe weather warning for damaging winds remains in place from the BoM Friday 4 August.
For people in parts of Central, East Gippsland, North Central, North East, West and South Gippsland and South West Forecast Districts.
Damaging wind gusts are still possible over the central and northeast ranges and Otways and Mornington Peninsula today.
Strong north to northwesterly winds are occurring ahead of an approaching cold front, which will move eastwards across the state during today.
Strong winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with damaging wind gusts of around 90 km/h are likely about higher terrain and south-facing slopes from the central ranges east to the Alps, and also about the Otways and Surf Coast, and the Mornington Peninsula.
Winds are forecast to ease from the west, over the central ranges, Otways and Mornington Peninsula in the mid to late afternoon, and over the eastern ranges late evening or early Saturday morning.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater. Avoid travel if possible.
* Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
* Be aware – heat, fire or recent storms may make trees unstable and more likely to fall when it’s windy or wet.
* Check that loose items, such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured. Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
* Stay indoors and away from windows.
* If outdoors, move to a safe place indoors. Stay away from trees, drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
* Stay away from fallen powerlines – always assume they are live.
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks. Heavy rainfall may also increase the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
* Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.
