The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting winds of up to 130kmh this afternoon in the eastern Alpine region.

The State Emergency Service is urging residents to take precautions such as not parking or sheltering under trees and be alert to debris.

Loose items around the home, such as outdoor settings, should also be secured.

Energy Safe Victoria is warning of the possibility of blackouts because of the winds.

Employment safety authority WorkSafe is also stressing to businesses the need to be cautious.

Exxecutive director John Merritt said scaffolds should be properly secured and uncompleted walls braced.

“Safety failings are often the result of multiple factors that come together quickly and strike with devastating consequences.

“They kill or badly hurt people including members of the public."