Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology Victoria TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Weather Warning for Damaging Winds for parts of North East, East Gippsland and West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts. Issued at 4:35 pm Wednesday, 17 June 2026. Damaging wind gusts to develop over elevated areas of the northeast ranges from late Thursday afternoon. Weather Situation Northwesterly winds will strengthen over the northeast ranges ahead of a trough and cold front that will move eastwards across the state on Thursday and Friday. DAMAGING WINDS for the following areas: East Gippsland, North East and West and South Gippsland Strong northwesterly winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h with DAMAGING WIND GUSTS of around 100 km/h will develop over exposed areas of the northeast ranges from late Thursday afternoon and will continue throughout the evening, mainly at elevations above 1500 metres. Conditions are expected to ease by sunrise on Friday morning. Locations which may be affected include 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. The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 11:00 pm AEST Wednesday. 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.