Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 5:21 pm Friday, 16 January 2026.

Damaging wind gusts will develop over exposed alpine peaks in the east of the state this evening.

Weather Situation: A low pressure system is situated off the southern NSW coast and a large slow moving high pressure system is well to the south of Victoria. This is resulting in a strong east to southeasterly pressure gradient over the east of the state and will result in damaging winds developing over elevated areas this evening.

East to southeasterly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with isolated DAMAGING WIND GUSTS reaching up to 100 km/h are likely to develop over areas above 1000 metres in elevation in the eastern ranges this evening.

Damaging winds are expected to continue into early Saturday morning, but are likely to ease by sunrise.

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

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.