Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 5:03 pm Thursday, 3 October 2024.

Damaging winds possible about the Grampians and parts of the Central Ranges early on Friday.

Weather Situation: Strong northerly winds will increase over Victoria during Friday morning as a strong cold front approaches from the west.

DAMAGING WINDS GUSTS of around 90 km/h are possible over the Grampians in the early hours of Friday morning. The risk of DAMAGING WIND GUSTS will then spread to parts of the Central Ranges and the far northern suburbs of Melbourne later in the morning, with winds expected to ease during the afternoon.

Locations which may be affected include Bacchus Marsh.

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.