Authorities are warning of persistent wild weather and strong winds affecting several states over the coming days, urging residents in Victoria and Tasmania to prepare for potential power outages and hazardous conditions.
Victoria’s State Emergency Service has issued a cautionary message, advising residents to stay vigilant, particularly on roads near heavily treed areas, for the next 36 hours.
Chief Operations Officer Tim Wiebusch emphasized the severity of the approaching weather system, describing it as potentially the strongest winter storm to impact the state this season.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for damaging winds across southwestern Western Australia, parts of South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.
Tasmania faces flooding risk with heavy rainfall; authorities urge vigilance and preparation measures.Wind gusts exceeding 90 km/h have already been reported in Victoria’s alpine regions, with winds potentially reaching destructive levels of over 125 km/h. These conditions pose risks to downed trees, power lines, and dangerous travel conditions.
Tasmania is also bracing for up to 200 mm of rainfall over the next week, raising the possibility of flooding in major rivers and on the northwest coast. Additionally, dangerous coastal conditions in Victoria’s southwest and east coasts could lead to erosion and unusually high tides.
Authorities advise securing outdoor items and parking away from trees to mitigate damage. Ausnet has recommended that Victorians prepare for potential power outages by having battery-operated devices and emergency supplies readily available.
The company has stationed backup generators and is prepared to mobilize additional resources as needed.
The severe weather follows recent storms that disrupted power and required significant emergency response. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during these challenging conditions.