Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 11:20 am Sunday, 25 August 2024.
Damaging winds to return to alpine areas today.

Weather Situation: A cold front is expected to move over the eastern ranges during the evening, with strengthening northwesterly winds ahead of it. Damaging winds are possible from late this morning and are becoming more likely just before or during the frontal passage, particularly in showers and thunderstorms. Winds will ease in the wake of the cold front from the west overnight into early Monday.

DAMAGING WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h are possible over alpine areas from late this morning, becoming more likely during the evening, and continuing into early Monday morning.
Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds by sunrise on Monday morning.

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

Severe thunderstorms are likely to develop over large portions of Victoria today, and additional severe thunderstorm warnings may be issued if necessary. Please refer to http://www.bom.gov.au/vic/warnings/ for more information.
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90 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mt Buller at 10:50 am.
Sustained 66 km/h winds were recorded at Mt Hotham at 11:06 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.