Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central, East Gippsland, South West, North East, West and South Gippsland and Wimmera Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:41 pm Monday, 4 October 2021.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS developing MONDAY EVENING

Weather Situation: A cold front will enter the southwest later this evening and cross Bass Strait during Tuesday

Strong west to southwesterly winds averaging 40 to 60km/h with DAMAGING GUSTS of 90km/h are expected to develop about the southwest coast and the Otways on Monday evening, extend across central and northeastern parts of the warning area overnight, and finally reach the far east coast by Tuesday afternoon.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS may reach 100 to 110km/h between Warrnambool and Wye River in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Damaging winds are expected to contract from the west Tuesday morning, clearing from central parts by the middle of the day before clearing from the east later Tuesday.

Locations which may be affected include The Grampians, Portland, Warrnambool, Wonthaggi, and the higher peaks of the northeast ranges.

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.