Source: Bureau of Meteorology
Refer to VicEmergency for AWS alerts

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

Issued at 4:43 pm Tuesday, 28 July 2026.

Damaging winds possible over alpine peaks and southwest coastal areas.

Weather Situation: A cold front is forecast to move across Victoria today, driving increased northwesterly winds across elevated areas in the northeast of the state. A weakening low crosses Bass Strait this evening and into early Wednesday with increased southwesterly winds about the southwest coast. Conditions ease Wednesday as the front and low shift further east.

For ALPINE AREAS above 1200 metres: DAMAGING NORTHWESTERLY WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are possible. DAMAGING WINDS are expected to ease during Wednesday morning.

For SOUTHWEST COASTAL AREAS: DAMAGING SOUTHWESTERLY WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h are possible, with the strongest gusts expected in shower activity and isolated thunderstorms. DAMAGING WINDS are expected to ease in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

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

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.