Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology Victoria TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Weather Warning for Damaging Winds for parts of East Gippsland, North East and West and South Gippsland Forecast Districts. Issued at 12:06 am Thursday, 20 August 2026. Damaging winds over the eastern ranges tonight. Weather Situation North to northwesterly winds ahead of an approaching trough have strengthened during Wednesday evening. Winds should gradually weaken early Thursday morning as the trough moves east of the affected area. DAMAGING WINDS for the following areas: East Gippsland, North East and West and South Gippsland DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 65 to 75 km/h with peak gusts of around 110 km/h are expected about elevated peaks during Wednesday night, easing early Thursday morning. Locations which may be affected include Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller. 117 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Hotham at 11:35 pm. 96 km/h wind gust was recorded at Mount Buller at 11:16 pm. 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 am AEST Thursday. 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.