Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:33 am Saturday, 14 November 2020.

DAMAGING WINDS SOUTHERN VICTORIA ON SUNDAY

Weather Situation: Strong northerly winds developing ahead of a low pressure trough expected to cross the State later Sunday into Monday morning.

DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 50 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are expected to develop about elevated areas (above 400m) of western Victoria early SUNDAY morning, extending to elevated areas in central parts and west Gippsland during morning.

DAMAGING WINDS, with peak wind gusts around 90 km/h are possible through remaining parts of the warning area from late Sunday morning.

Winds are expected to continue to extend east along the ranges overnight Sunday, but will ease from the west following a westerly wind change extending from the west later on Sunday, moving through central parts overnight and eastern Victoria Monday morning.

Locations which may be affected include Ararat, Ballarat, Melbourne, Bacchus Marsh, Mt Baw Baw and Mt Buller.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Be aware that trees that have been damaged by heat or fire may be unstable and more likely to fall when it is windy or wet.
* Check that loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured and 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.
* 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.
* Stay away from fallen powerlines always assume they are live.
* Stay informed monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency.