Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 3:29 pm Friday, 29 August 2025.

DESTRUCTIVE WINDS POSSIBLE ABOUT VIC ALPS WITH STORMS ON COLD FRONT, DAMAGING ELSEWHERE.

Weather Situation: Showers and storms have developed about a vigorous cold front crossing Victoria this afternoon.

VERY DANGEROUS THUNDERSTORMS are likely to produce damaging, locally destructive winds over the next several hours in parts of the North East and East Gippsland districts. Locations which may be affected include Falls Creek and Mt Hotham.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds over the next several hours in the North East and parts of the East Gippsland, Northern Country and West and South Gippsland districts. Locations which may be affected include Wodonga, Wangaratta, Bright, Falls Creek, Yarrawonga and Mt Hotham.

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.