THE Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds and thunderstorms across most of Victoria, including Bass Coast and South Gippsland this afternoon and into tomorrow morning.
The vigorous southwesterly airstream will follow the passage of the front, initially in the west of the state before transitioning east during the evening, with the ranges and southern areas of the state at particular risk of widespread damaging winds. This flow will persist for three to six hours at any location before gradually easing.
Winds averaging 70 to 80 km/h with gusts around 115 km/h are possible along the southern coastal fringe for a period of a few hours. Winds are expected to ease in western and central areas by sunrise Saturday and from the east by the early afternoon.
Dangerous thunderstorms are likely in the North East and East Gippsland districts, with winds from these thunderstorms likely to affect parts of West and South Gippsland.
A warning to sheep graziers has also been issued for our region.
In light of the severe weather front, Transport Victoria are reminding motorists to slow down and take extra care in bad weather.
“Bad weather should prompt drivers to slow down and use extreme care as conditions can change quickly. Vigilance is required at all times and drivers should avoid any distractions that will take their focus off the road,” Transport Victoria stated.
“Judging distance and speed can deteriorate in adverse conditions. Motorists must always keep a safe distance from the car in front. The two second gap should be extended to four seconds in difficult conditions.
“If the rain becomes too heavy for wipers to cope, drivers should pull over safely and wait for the rain to pass. Never walk, ride or drive through flood water.
“If fallen power lines are encountered, people should stay well clear and immediately call Triple Zero.
“Low-beam headlights help to see and be seen. Extra vigilance for pedestrians, cyclists and motorbikes is required as they are harder to see.
“Delays are also likely across the public transport network in bad weather. Passengers are encouraged to check the Transport Victoria website before travel.”
Emergency services are expecting to see fallen trees and potential entrapments, and as such, people have been urged to take care.
