Australia’s southern states are bracing for another bout of intense winds, as weather systems sweep in from the west.
After a brief reprieve on Thursday, the gusts are set to return overnight, impacting South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, the ACT, and southern NSW.
The winds, which have already caused significant disruptions, are forecast to intensify. By Friday morning, the NSW south coast will experience heavy gusts, with conditions expected to worsen as the day progresses.
A second wave of strong winds is predicted to hit southern Victoria and Tasmania by Friday night, with the potential for even more fronts through the weekend.
Severe weather warnings were issued as damaging winds and fire risks rose across southern Australia.The fierce weather is driven by a series of cold air fronts moving across the southern half of the country. These fronts, which have already passed through parts of Western Australia and South Australia, are expected to bring continued gusty conditions.
The Bureau of Meteorology warns that winds could reach speeds of up to 100 km/h in areas such as Melbourne and Hobart, with higher altitudes potentially facing gusts of 120 km/h.
This ongoing windy weather is not only causing disruptions but also heightening fire risks. Hot temperatures combined with strong winds are expected to raise the fire danger in Sydney, coastal NSW, and southern Queensland.
Meanwhile, severe weather warnings have been issued for Tasmania, Victoria, the ACT, and southern NSW due to the potential for damaging winds and flooding.
Emergency services urge residents to secure loose outdoor items, stay alert for falling debris, and be cautious of power outages. As Australia contends with these challenging weather conditions, staying informed and prepared is crucial for safety.