Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 3:24 pm Tuesday, 28 November 2023.
Heavy rainfall and possible damaging winds about parts of southern Victoria on Wednesday.

Weather Situation: A low pressure system over western New South Wales will move slowly towards the southeast, sitting just north of Victoria by Wednesday. A strong easterly flow will develop to the south of the low over southern Victoria, drawing in rich moisture from the Tasman Sea.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may load to FLASH FLOODING is expected to develop in the warning area from late Wednesday morning. Six-hourly totals of 50 to 70 mm are possible. Isolated falls up to 100 mm are possible around the Otways.

Strong winds from the east to southeast averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are possible for the Otways, Surf Coast and Wilsons Prom.
Conditions should ease during Wednesday evening.

Locations which may be affected include Apollo Bay, Lorne and Tidal River.

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.