Destructive winds

We're being warned of a windy day today with a Severe Weather Warning for Destructive Winds issued for parts of Gippsland.

The weather bureau says areas west of Traralgon, South Gippsland and the high country are in for tough time as the day goes on.

North to northwesterly winds will strenghten during the day, ahead of cold front that is due in Gippsland early Saturday morning, bringing with it a cold westerly airflow.

Severe Weather Warning

for DESTRUCTIVE WINDS

For people in Central, South West, North Central, West and South Gippsland, Wimmera and parts of East Gippsland, Mallee, Northern Country and North East Forecast Districts.

Issued at 5:09 am Friday, 10 August 2018.

Weather Situation:
Northerly winds will strengthen Friday morning ahead of a cold front which will reach southwest Victoria Friday afternoon central Victoria Friday night and eastern Victoria early Saturday morning.

DESTRUCTIVE WINDS, averaging 80 to 90 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 125 km/h are expected to develop over Alpine areas above 1500 metres Friday morning and will persist during Friday afternoon - then will gradually ease overnight.

DAMAGING NORTHERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of 90 to 100 km/h are expected to develop from the west on Friday. Peak gusts of this magnitude are likely to become widespread during Friday morning and will persist during the afternoon.

Winds are expected to ease following the passage of the cold front.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Move vehicles under cover or away from trees;
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony;
* Keep clear of fallen power lines.