Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:40 am Saturday, 21 October 2023.

Damaging wind gusts to develop near the southwest coast during Saturday night, extending to the southeast during Sunday afternoon.

Weather Situation: Northwest to southwesterly winds will strengthen as a low pressure system deepens over the western Bass Strait during Saturday. The low will then move eastwards across Bass Strait during Sunday and into the Tasman Sea Monday morning.

For SOUTH WEST COAST: Strong northwest to southwesterly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are likely from Saturday night, gradually easing from the west from late Sunday morning.

For SOUTHEAST CENTRAL and WEST AND SOUTH GIPPSLAND: Strong northwest to southwesterly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are possible from Sunday afternoon, easing overnight.

Locations which may be affected include Warrnambool, Portland, Wonthaggi, Morwell, Traralgon and Sale.

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.