Western Victorians told to brace for 130km/h winds

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for south west Victoria, as a deepening low-pressure system moves rapidly across Bass Strait, bringing damaging winds to much of the region.

❓What happened: Strong west to south-westerly winds are affecting towns including Warrnambool and Ballarat, as well as coastal towns west of Cape Otway. 

As of 10:20 this morning (October 22), winds had reached 94km/h at Warrnambool, with gusts potentially reaching 100 to 120 kilometres an hour, and potentially up to 130 kilometres an hour along the exposed coastline later in the day.

🌳 Safety message: The Victorian State Emergency Service has urged residents to take precautions by:

• Staying indoors where possible; 

• Securing loose outdoor items such as furniture and umbrellas; and 

• Avoiding travel if conditions are unsafe.

People are also being warned to steer clear of fallen trees, branches and powerlines, and to assume any downed wires are live.

• Motorists are advised to take extra care on roads, with debris and strong crosswinds expected across open and coastal areas.

⏰ How long will it last: The Bureau said the severe conditions are likely to ease later on Wednesday in western parts of the region, and by Wednesday night around Ballarat.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the VicEmergency app or the Bureau of Meteorology website for the latest warnings and weather updates.