Severe weather on its way

THE Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Weather Warning for parts of South Gippsland.

This advice message is for damaging northwesterly winds, averaging 50 to 65 km/h with peak gusts of 90 to 100 km/h are forecast in the warning area.

Elevated areas are particularly vulnerable to these winds.

Severe thunderstorms are also possible in the northeast of the state later today and may further enhance the risk of severe wind gusts.

A separate Severe Thunderstorm Warning may be issued if these occur.

Saturated soils bring an increased risk of gusty winds toppling trees and powerlines.

Winds are expected to ease below warning criteria by this evening.

Stay informed and be aware of potential hazards caused by severe weather. Hazards include falling trees and powerlines.

What you should do:

• Park your car undercover and away from trees.
• Stay inside if conditions outside appear dangerous.
• Contact family members and neighbours to ensure they are aware of the situation, if safe to do so.
• When preparing your property, ensure you take appropriate safety precautions and do so well before the severe weather arrives.
• Be aware of hazardous trees - recent rainfall may make trees unstable and more likely to fall during a storm.

If you are driving:

• If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low lying areas and floodwater.
• Be aware of road hazards such as mud, debris and damaged roads or bridges.
• Drive slowly and obey all road signs. Never drive through floodwater.
• For road closure information, check the VicTraffic website, contact your local council or call VicRoads (13 11 70).

You should stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasters and monitoring warnings.

Call Triple Zero (000) in a life threatening emergency.

For severe weather related emergency assistance from the SES, phone 132 500.