The State Emergency Service is urging the community to be careful, with wild winds overnight bringing down trees and powerlines across the region.
SES south west duty officer Brad Jew said while the winds had eased by late morning, there was still a lot of damage being dealt with, particularly around the Bellarine Peninsula.
Mr Jew said the Bellarine Highway was a high-risk area, as well as Barwon Heads Road, which was blocked near the airport, and urged drivers to avoid the areas if possible.
The wind kicked off overnight, and continued early this morning, resulting in trees and powerlines being pulled down.
“We’ve had around 160 to 170 calls for assistance since last night, and there’s probably still about 80 jobs we have to get to,” he said.
“The main message is to take care if you have to be out on the roads and don’t park under trees.
“The wind has also brought some powerlines down, so be careful around powerlines.”
Mr Jew said anyone who needed assistance ue to the weather should contact the SES on 132 500.
“That number has been smashed, but just hold on and we will get to you,” he said.
“However if it is a life-threatening or emergency situation, that call needs to go to 000.”
The Geelong racecourse weather station recorded a 80km/h gust at 7am, while on the Surf Coast there were gusts exceeding 100km/h recorded.
There have also been flood warnings for the Barwon, Leigh and Moorabool rivers issued.
