Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:58 am Thursday, 25 July 2024.
Damaging winds about the eastern ranges, easing later this afternoon.

Weather Situation: Vigorous northwesterly wind flow is continuing ahead of a strong cold front which is moving across Victoria during the day today and out in the Tasman Sea tonight, with winds easing in its wake.

For ALPINE AND ADJACENT AREAS: DAMAGING WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h are likely, with peak gusts of around 110 km/h possible. Damaging winds are forecast to ease below warning thresholds late this afternoon.

Locations which may be affected include Dargo, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller and Omeo.
Severe weather is no longer occurring in the Central and North Central districts and the warning for these districts is CANCELLED.

115 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Hotham at 4:44 am.

94 km/h wind gust was recorded at Falls Creek at 6:00 am.

107 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Buller at 6:49 am.

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.