Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of East Gippsland, South West, North East, West and South Gippsland and Wimmera Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:32 pm Thursday, 18 July 2024.
Damaging winds about the northeast alpine region and the Grampians from Friday afternoon, with blizzards also likely for the alpine region.

Weather Situation: Strengthening northwesterly flow ahead of an approaching cold front will result in damaging winds and blizzards about the northeast alpine region, with damaging winds also likely for the Grampians, from late Friday afternoon. Winds are forecast to shift southwesterly on Saturday, with the risk easing Saturday evening following the passage of the front.

For the NORTHEAST ALPINE REGION: DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h, along with BLIZZARD conditions above 1200 m are likely from late Friday afternoon, easing late Saturday afternoon.

For the GRAMPIANS: DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h, are expected from late Friday afternoon. Winds are expected to ease by Saturday afternoon.

Locations which may be affected include Dargo, Mt Baw Baw, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Omeo.


The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater. Avoid travel if possible.
* Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
* Be aware - heat, fire or recent storms may make trees unstable and more likely to fall when it's windy or wet.
* Check that loose items, such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured. Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
* Stay indoors and away from windows.
* If outdoors, move to a safe place indoors. Stay away from trees, drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
* Stay away from fallen powerlines - always assume they are live.
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks. Heavy rainfall may also increase the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
* Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.