Wimmera residents can expect strong wind and cold temperatures today as as a complex multi-centred low pressure system deepens near Tasmania today.

The system will direct a vigorous westerly airflow across Victoria. The low will move away to the southeast later on Saturday.

Damaging winds averaging 60 to 70kmh with peak gusts in excess of 90kmh, are expected about the southwest coastal fringe and the Alpine peaks, extending to remaining parts later this morning and into the early afternoon.

The winds are most likely to be associated with showers and thunderstorms.

Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Stawell, Hamilton, Portland, Warrnambool, Frankston, Wonthaggi, Mt Baw Baw, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek.

Sheep graziers have been warned that cold temperatures, showers and gusty westerly winds are expected during Friday and Saturday.

Areas likely to be affected include the Wimmera, Northern Country, North Central, North East, South West, Central and West and South Gippsland forecast districts and parts of the Mallee and East Gippsland forecast districts, although conditions will ease across the Mallee, Wimmera and Northern Country overnight.

There is a risk of losses of lambs and sheep exposed to these conditions.