Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 9:28 am Friday, 15 October 2021.

STRONG WINDS DEVELOPING FRIDAY NIGHT

Weather Situation: A low pressure system will deepen in Bass Strait overnight

Strong winds averaging 50 to 70 km/h with DAMAGING GUSTS of up to 90 km/h are expected to develop in the warning area late Friday evening

Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds before dawn on Saturday about the Surf Coast, Mornington Peninsula, eastern suburbs of Melbourne and Phillip Island, then ease about the remainder of the Bass Coast, east Gippsland coast and Alpine areas later on Saturday morning.

Locations which may be affected include the Surf Coast, Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, eastern bayside suburbs of Melbourne, Phillip Island and Alpine areas.

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.