Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:26 am Sunday, 16 March 2025.

Damaging winds about elevated parts of eastern Victoria today.

Weather Situation: A strong cold front is forecast to move across Victoria during the day today, bringing vigorous northwesterly winds to eastern parts of the state.

DAMAGING WINDS averaging 55 to 65 km/h with peak gusts to 100 km/h are possible about elevated parts of eastern Victoria. Locations above 1200m may experience wind gusts to 110 km/h.

Conditions are expected to ease by late this afternoon as the front moves eastwards out of the state.

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

Significant wind observations to 10:00 am AEDT Sunday include:

98 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mt Buller Airport at 3:39 am

91 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mt Hotham at 5:15 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.