Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:10 am Thursday, 14 September 2023.

Damaging wind gusts developing about the elevated terrain early Friday morning.

Weather Situation: A strong cold front will quickly move across the state early Friday morning with damaging winds expected about elevated terrain as it moved by.

Strong winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are likely over the central ranges early Friday morning.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS to around 100 km/h are possible over higher elevations above 1000 m in the northeast early Friday morning.

Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds about the central ranges by sunrise and about the northeast during the late morning and early afternoon.

Locations which may be affected include Kyneton, Daylesford, Bright, Falls Creek, Mt Buller and Omeo.

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.