Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:01 am Wednesday, 27 January 2021.

GUSTY WINDS DEVELOPING

Weather Situation: A high pressure system moving to the south of Victoria will result in easterly winds strengthening on Wednesday evening.

DAMAGING EASTERLY WINDS, averaging 40 to 60 km/h with peak gusts of 80 to 90 km/h developing from late Wednesday about parts of southern Victoria and the Grampians. The strongest gusts are most likely about the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Port Phillip and the Surf Coast, and most likely to occur in the period around midnight.

Winds are mostly expected to ease by sunrise on Thursday, however strong gusts may continue to be experienced about Wilsons Prom and Cape Otway during the day on Thursday.

Locations which may be affected include Wonthaggi, Frankston, Rosebud, Warragul, Moe and Wilsons Prom.

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.