Strong winds return overnight, affecting South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and southern NSW through the weekend.
Severe weather warnings issued as gusts up to 120 km/h impact southern Australia’s highlands.
Australia’s southern states are set to face another round of dangerous winds as weather systems continue to move in from the west. While winds eased on Thursday, gusts are expected to pick up again overnight, bringing hazardous conditions to several regions.
When to Expect the Winds
After a brief respite, heavy winds will return late Thursday, impacting the coasts of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, the ACT, and southern NSW.
The gusty weather is forecasted to hit the NSW south coast by Friday morning, clearing by the afternoon. However, another front is expected to bring strong winds to southern Victoria and Tasmania on Friday night, with further fronts possibly affecting the region throughout the weekend.
The Cause Behind the Winds
The persistent gusts are driven by a series of cold fronts sweeping across Australia’s southern half.
Bureau of MeteorologyA front moved through on Wednesday, followed by another that crossed Western Australia on Thursday. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warns that more fronts are on the way, bringing additional wind.
How Long Will This Last?
Weatherzone meteorologist Angus Konta predicts that the winds will continue through the weekend and into early next week. This ongoing pattern of strong westerly winds is likely to keep the southern states on high alert.
Areas Most Affected
The strongest winds, with speeds reaching up to 100 km/h, are expected in Tasmania, the ACT, and southern NSW, as well as central and eastern Victoria. High-altitude areas could see gusts nearing 120 km/h.
Sydney, Canberra, and Adelaide may experience winds up to 80 km/h, while Melbourne and Hobart could face the most severe conditions.
Potential Hazards
Damaging winds are likely across Tasmania, Victoria, the ACT, and southern NSW, prompting severe weather warnings. Residents are urged to secure loose items and be vigilant for debris, fallen trees, and powerlines. Additionally, rain accompanying these fronts may lead to flooding in parts of Tasmania. Emergency services are on high alert, urging caution as the winds return.