Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 2:49 am Friday, 23 February 2024.

Gusty severe thunderstorms occurring in a hot and unstable airmass.

Weather Situation: Gusty thunderstorms are quickly moving towards the east bringing damaging winds mostly to elevated alpine locations.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Bright, Dargo, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller and Omeo.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the Northern Country and North Central districts and the warning for these districts is CANCELLED.

114 km/h wind gust recorded at Mount Buller Airport at 11:20pm AEDT Thursday.

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.