Strong winds set to hit today

Strong winds are set to hit today. Picture: ON FILE

Damaging wind with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are expected to extend into eastern Victoria during the afternoon and evening, including most of the Yarra Ranges.

The wind will ease over eastern and central districts later this afternoon including Melbourne and ease over eastern districts in the late evening.

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.