Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:26 am Friday, 17 January 2025.

Damaging winds may redevelop about Alpine peaks tonight.

Weather Situation: A strong high pressure system in the Bight combined with a developing low pressure system off the NSW coast will continue generating a strong south to southeasterly wind flow across the Victorian Alpine peaks tonight and into Saturday morning.

Winds have eased this morning about the alpine peaks, however locally strong to DAMAGING WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts around 90 km/h may redevelop later this evening and on Saturday morning about the Alpine peaks and elevated terrain.

Winds are then expected to ease later on Saturday morning.

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

Sustained wind speeds of 75 km/h were observed at Mount Hotham at 10:15pm Thursday.

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.