Source: Bureau of Meteorology
Refer to VicEmergency for AWS alerts

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

Issued at 2:50 am Thursday, 18 June 2026.

Damaging wind gusts occurring over elevated areas of the Grampians and northeast ranges.

Weather Situation: North to northwesterly winds have strengthened over the Grampians and the northeast ranges ahead of a trough and cold front that will move eastwards across the state during today and Friday.

Strong northerly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are occurring about the exposed peaks of the Grampians. Conditions are expected to ease this morning.

Strong north to northwesterly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 100 km/h are occurring over exposed areas of the northeast ranges and will continue through the rest of today, mainly at elevations above 1500 metres. Conditions are expected to ease by sunrise on Friday morning.

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

A 93 km/h wind gust was observed at Mt William at 2:37 am.

A 91 km/h wind gust was observed at Mt Buller at 2:24 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.