Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 9:01 am Wednesday, 20 September 2023.

Damaging winds about the eastern ranges.

Weather Situation: Northwesterly winds will strengthen ahead of a cold front which is forecast to cross eastern Victoria later this morning.

DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are likely about elevated parts of the warning area Wednesday morning.

Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds from early Wednesday afternoon.

Locations which may be affected include Dargo, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Omeo.

Severe weather is no longer occurring in the Central and North Central districts and the warning for these districts is CANCELLED.

106 km/h wind gust has been recorded at Mt. Buller at 3:04pm on Tuesday 19 September.

104 km/h wind gust has been recorded at Mt Hotham at 5:00pm on Tuesday 19 September.

102 km/h wind gust has been recorded at Falls Creek at 4:46pm on Tuesday 19 September.

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.