Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 2:12 pm Friday, 5 December 2025.

Damaging winds developing over the eastern ranges during Saturday.

Weather Situation: A cold front traverses Victoria during Saturday. Gusty west to northwesterly winds ahead of this system with gusty showers and thunderstorms will result in a damaging wind risk over the eastern ranges.

For ALPINE PEAKS (above 1200 metres): Strong winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 to 100 km/h are likely to develop from Saturday morning. The risk of DAMAGING WIND GUSTS is expected to ease during Saturday evening.

For remaining areas (below 1200 metres): Strong winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 90 km/h are possible about mostly elevated terrain across the remainder of the warning area and with gusty showers and thunderstorms from late Saturday morning. DAMAGING WIND GUSTS are expected to ease from late Saturday afternoon.

DAMAGING WIND GUSTS in excess of 90 km/h are also possible with thunderstorms in the east of the state Saturday.

Locations which may be affected include Falls Creek, Dargo, Buchan, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller, Omeo, Chandlers Creek, Combienbar and Gelantipy.

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.