Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 3:30 pm Monday, 19 July 2021.

STRONG AND GUSTY COLD CHANGE ON TUESDAY

Weather Situation:
A strong and gusty cold front is forecast to cross Victoria during Tuesday.

DAMAGING SOUTHWESTERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h are possible with and behind a cold front on Tuesday about Alpine areas, and about elevated parts of the Otways, Grampians, Central Ranges and Strzelecki Ranges.

The DAMAGING WINDS are expected the develop about the Otways and Grampians during the mid to late morning, then extend to the central and eastern ranges, and the Strzeleckis, from the early afternoon. Winds will gradually ease from the west during the evening.

Locations which may be affected include Stawell, Seymour, Castlemaine, Kyneton, Bright 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.