IDV21037
Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

Severe Weather Warning

for DAMAGING WINDS

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

Issued at 4:51 am Friday, 19 June 2026.

Damaging wind risk returning to elevated areas of the northeast ranges today.

Weather Situation: Northwesterly winds have eased about the northeast ranges, however they may reintensify during this afternoon ahead of a trough that will move across the state this afternoon.

DAMAGING NORTH TO NORTHWESTERLY WINDS averaging 60 to 75 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h may occur over exposed areas of the northeast ranges during this afternoon, mainly at elevations above 1500 metres. Conditions are expected to ease during the evening.

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

90 km/h wind gust was observed at Mt Buller at 6:19 pm.

96 km/h wind gust was observed at Falls Creek at 6:10 pm.

122 km/h wind gust was observed at Mt Hotham at 3:32 pm.

Sustained 79 km/h winds were observed at Mount Hotham in the 10 minutes around 3:25 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.

The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 11:00 am AEST Friday.

Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.