Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 11:54 pm Wednesday, 9 August 2023.
DAMAGING northerly wind gusts increasing this evening ahead of cold front arriving Thursday morning.

A moderate cold front is approaching from western Victoria, bringing strong northerly winds and damaging gusts.

Strong northerly winds will continue with gusts 90 to 100 km/h ahead of the cold front. The front will approach the eastern alps early Thursday morning, where gusts may be briefly stronger in showers. Winds will ease during Thursday morning morning as they turn southwesterly behind the front.

Locations which may be affected include Falls Creek and Mt Hotham.
-92 km/h gust at Mount Hotham at 11:40pm.
-100 km/h gust at Mount Hotham at 11:54pm.

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.