DAMAGING WINDS averaging 55 to 65 km/h with peak gusts around 90 km/h are possible about western, central and eastern ranges today.
DAMAGING WIND GUSTS are expected to develop through western Victoria in the late morning, extending throughout the warning area including MELBOURNE during the afternoon. DAMAGING WIND GUSTS could reach up to 110 km/h with thunderstorms and over elevated terrain.
Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds across most of the state during the evening, but may persist over the eastern peaks until Saturday morning.
Locations which may be affected include Horsham, Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, Geelong, Melbourne, Traralgon and Bairnsdale.
91 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount William at 8:56 am.
Severe Weather Warning
for DAMAGING WINDS
Issued at 10:58 am Friday, 9 January 2026.
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.
The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 5:00 pm AEDT Friday.
Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.
Varoitus voimassa pe klo 1:58 - pe klo 10:00
