Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 11:01 am Saturday, 30 September 2023.

Damaging winds developing over Gippsland and elevated terrain on Sunday.

Weather Situation: A cold front is forecast to sweep across Victoria during Sunday morning bringing vigorous and gusty winds ahead of and behind it. Winds are expected to ease during Sunday evening as a high pressure ridge moves in behind the front.

Strong to DAMAGING WINDS averaging 55 to 65 km/h with peak gusts of around 90km/hr are possible over the Grampians, Otways and central ranges from the early hours of Sunday, extending to the eastern ranges during Sunday morning, then extending more broadly through the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland late Sunday morning.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS to around 100km/h are possible over higher elevations above 1200 m.

Damaging winds are expected to ease from western and central areas by midday Sunday, then ease elsewhere by early Sunday evening.

Locations which may be affected include Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, Moe, Bairnsdale 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.