Wild weather: BOM issues warnings for high tides, damaging winds

Coastal flooding is possible along the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula on Tuesday as a powerful weather system brings gale-force winds and abnormally high tides to Victoria’s southwest.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for parts of the state’s western and central coastline, including Ocean Grove, with elevated sea levels expected between the South Australian border and Point Lonsdale.

A complex low-pressure system will approach western Victoria on Monday before moving over Bass Strait on Tuesday, bringing strong to gale-force west to northwesterly winds and elevated sea levels across western and parts of the central coast.

The bureau warned abnormally high tides could lead to sea water flooding in low-lying coastal areas, with tides expected to rise well above the normal high tide mark during Tuesday afternoon’s high tide.

The Victoria State Emergency Service and Life Saving Victoria have advised people to stay away from beaches, tidal rivers and creeks, and not to walk, drive or ride through floodwaters.

People with boats or other watercraft are being urged to haul them out where possible or ensure moorings are secure.

A separate warning has also been issued for damaging winds.

Vigorous northwesterly winds are expected to develop across western Victoria on Monday night, with gusts of up to 100km/h possible.

The SES has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, secure loose outdoor items and take care around trees, which may become unstable in strong winds.

Residents are also being encouraged to monitor forecasts and warnings through the Bureau of Meteorology and VicEmergency as conditions develop.