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 6:51 am Wednesday, 3 May 2023.
Damaging wind gusts are likely as a cold front sweeps through the state today.

Weather Situation: A strong cold front is moving across western parts of the state this morning, moving through to eastern parts during the afternoon. Strong westerly flow ahead of the cold front will shift southwesterly behind the front in the gusty post-frontal airmass over western districts early this morning, before extending to central and eastern parts of the state during the early afternoon.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS to around 115 km/h are likely over exposed parts of the Grampians and eastern Alpine areas above 1200m ahead of the cold front during this morning and early afternoon.

Strong winds averaging 50 to 60 km/hr with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS in excess of 90km/hr are also likely over parts of the Southwest district early this morning. Isolated DAMAGING WIND GUSTS are possible over southern parts of the Central and West & South Gippsland and East Gippsland districts this morning, but becoming more likely in the afternoon with passing showers and thunderstorms in these areas.

Winds are expected to ease in the west of the state and over Alpine areas early this afternoon, before easing over central and eastern areas by the early evening.
Locations which may be affected include Warrnambool, Portland, Geelong, Wonthaggi, Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, Moe, Mallacoota and Falls Creek.

A 115 km/hr wind gust was recorded at Frankston Beach at 4:54 am.

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.