A BoM map of the warning area.
Baw Baw has been warned of damaging and destructive winds developing tonight and Friday morning.
The Bureau of Meteorology-issued warning covers a large part of the state, including Central, South West, North Central, West and South Gippsland, Wimmera and parts of East Gippsland, Mallee, Northern Country and North East Forecast Districts.
“Northerly winds will strengthen Thursday night and Friday morning ahead of a cold front which will reach south-west Victoria Friday afternoon central Victoria Friday night and eastern Victoria early Saturday morning,” the warning issued at 4.17pm read.
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NOTE: for the latest info, click here to visit the BoM’s warnings page.
“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 Thursday night and early Friday morning. 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. (see “Weather Situation”)
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“Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Warrnambool, Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne.
“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;
“The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 11:00 pm AEST Thursday.
“Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 217. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.”
