Source: Bureau of Meteorology
For people in parts of Central, South West and Wimmera Forecast
Districts.
Issued at 10:16 am Tuesday, 13 February 2024.
Damaging wind gusts with thunderstorms.
Weather Situation: A pre-frontal trough moving over western to
central districts is increasing the northwesterly winds ahead of it
over large parts of Victoria. Thunderstorms developing ahead and on
the trough can bring down damaging wind gusts.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the
warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be
affected include Stawell, Ararat, Lake Bolac and Ballarat.
A 98 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mt William at 9:41am.
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.
12/Feb/2024 11:21 PM