Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:08 am Sunday, 19 September 2021.

STRONG AND GUSTY WINDS ABOUT THE SOUTH AND RANGES ON SUNDAY

Weather Situation:
Northwesterly winds will increase about southern and mountain areas on Sunday morning ahead of a cold front, expected to cross Victoria Sunday afternoon and evening.

DAMAGING NORTHWESTERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h are expected to develop across the northeast ranges and parts of the southwest during the morning TODAY before extending to the remainder of the warning area by midday.

The risk of damaging winds is expected to contract to the northeast ranges late on SUNDAY afternoon then continue into the evening.

Locations which may be affected include Portland, Castlemaine, Kyneton, Ballarat, Daylesford 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.