Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:03 pm Friday, 19 September 2025.

Damaging winds continue in the far northeast and along the exposed south coast into early Saturday morning

Weather Situation: A cold front is moving through central parts of the state, reaching eastern districts this evening and will move into the Tasman Sea during early Saturday morning. Strong and gusty winds persist about southern coastal areas in the wake of the front.

For parts of the EASTERN RANGES: DAMAGING NORTHWESTERLY WINDS averaging 55 to 65 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are likely during the late evening, before easing early Saturday morning.

For exposed parts of the SOUTHWEST COAST and BASS COAST: West to southwesterly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are possible. Conditions will ease along the southwest coast during early Saturday morning and along the Bass Coast near sunrise.

Locations which may be affected include Warrnambool, Portland, Wonthaggi, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Omeo and Tidal River.

Severe weather is no longer occurring in the Wimmera district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

91 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Hotham at 9:08 pm.

98 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Buller Airport at 7:59 pm.

98 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Gellibrand at 7:11 pm.

91 km/h wind gust was recorded at Cape Otway Lighthouse at 6:30 pm.

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.