The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for parts of western Victoria after gusts of up to 94 km/h hour were recorded in Horsham.
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Damaging winds, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of 90 to 100 km/h are likely through much of western Victoria in north to northwesterly winds ahead of a trough over the next few hours.
Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Stawell, Hamilton, Ararat, Maryborough and Ballarat.
A gusty west to southwesterly wind change is expected through the warning area during the evening, with winds expected to ease behind the change later tonight.
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.