Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 4:29 pm Wednesday, 8 April 2026.

Damaging northwesterly winds developing later on Thursday.

Weather Situation: An approaching cold front will result in a strengthening northwesterly flow aloft on Thursday. Winds ease and tend more westerly during Friday as the front moves through the state.

DAMAGING NORTHWESTERLY WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are likely to develop in the eastern ranges from late Thursday afternoon. Wind gusts may reach 110 km/h from late Thursday evening in exposed alpine areas above 1200 metres.

Winds are expected to ease by late Friday afternoon.

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

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.