By Taylah Eastwell
Winds of up to 100km/h are forecast for the Dandenong Ranges over the weekend.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a severe weather warning for the Dandenongs and parts of Gippsland on Saturday 24 July, with “damaging winds’ of up to 60km/h expected to lash eastern parts of the state.
Peak gusts are anticipated to reach around 100km/h in elevated parts of eastern Victoria, such as the Dandenongs, and across the peaks of the Grampians.
The BoM has advised residents to be alert as the strong winds pose a significant risk of trees falling without warning due to soil moisture and overhanging trees caused by the June 9 extreme weather event.
VICSES is planning for the increase in severe weather conditions and the impacts it may bring.
Lilydale SES took to Facebook to raise the alarm, advising that people should ensure loose items, such as outdoor settings and trampolines, are secured.
“Avoid travel if possible,” Lilydale SES said on Facebook.
“Stay indoors and move away from windows,” they added.
The SES also advise residents to stay away from fallen powerlines and trees and avoid any floodwater.
The BoM advises cars be parked under cover and away from trees and warns residents to prepare properties before the weather arrives.
For road closure information, check the VicTraffic website, contact your local council or call VicRoads (13 11 70).
You should stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasters and monitoring warnings.
Call Triple Zero (000) in a life threatening emergency. For severe weather related emergency assistance from the SES, phone 132 500.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
