Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 4:57 pm Thursday, 25 November 2021.

STRONG AND GUSTY SOUTH TO SOUTHEASTERLY WINDS DEVELOPING

Weather Situation: A low pressure system will move southeast over NSW and the Tasman Sea overnight as a ridge of high pressure strengthens to the south of Victoria.

DAMAGING SOUTH TO SOUTHEASTERLY WINDS, averaging 50 to 60 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h, are expected to develop about the Grampians and central ranges tonight then extend to the eastern ranges during Friday morning. Peak gusts of around 100 km/h are expected about the Alpine peaks.

The risk of damaging winds will contract to eastern parts of the warning area during Friday afternoon then ease below warning thresholds by early Saturday morning.

Locations which may be affected include Seymour, Castlemaine, Kyneton, Daylesford, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek.

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.