Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 11:06 am Thursday, 26 March 2026.

Damaging southerly winds and heavy rainfall developing over parts of the state on Friday.

Weather Situation: A vigorous coastal low will form offshore of the southern NSW coast, leading to damaging southerly winds developing over parts of the central ranges and east of the state on Friday. Heavy rainfall is also expected to develop over parts of East Gippsland, as these winds combine with ample moisture to rise over topography. The low will move further offshore later on Friday, leading to an easing of conditions across the state.

DAMAGING SOUTHERLY WIND GUSTS with peak gusts of around 90 km/h are expected to develop over parts of the central ranges and east on Friday morning. Wind gusts may reach 100 km/h about the East Gippsland coast.

DAMAGING SOUTHERLY WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are likely about alpine areas above 1600 m from Friday morning.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is expected to develop over the elevated terrain of East Gippsland on Friday morning. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 60 to 80 mm are likely.

Conditions are expected to ease below warning thresholds by Friday evening.

Locations which may be affected include Orbost, Daylesford, Falls Creek, Buchan, Kyneton and Mallacoota.

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.