The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued its latest update, confirming that damaging winds are still whipping across the state, particularly in southern and mountain areas, though relief is on the way from the west.
The BOM reports a deep low-pressure system currently south of the Mornington Peninsula is “moving rapidly eastwards through Bass Strait this evening,” and is expected to weaken and clear into the Tasman Sea overnight.
Waves crash against Mornington Pier as strong winds batter the state. Credit: Alex Coppel
There are currently strong northwest to southwest winds averaging 50 to 60 km/h, with damaging gusts of 90 to 100 km/h hitting large parts of Central and Western Victoria, including the Melbourne area. Gusts are reaching up to 110 km/h in higher and more exposed spots.
The force of the winds has been impressive, with gusts recorded at: 120 km/h at Mt Gellibrand, 111 km/h at Mt Hotham, 96 km/h at St Kilda Harbour, and 91 km/h at Melbourne and Essendon Airports.
If you’re in Gippsland or Eastern Victoria, be prepared – winds are expected to intensify in your area this evening.
The severe weather warning has been cancelled for the Mallee district.Credit: Alex Coppel
The good news is that conditions are already easing from the west, with Melbourne expected to see relief within the next couple of hours. The severe weather should clear eastern and mountain areas by Thursday morning.
Areas that may still be affected this evening include: Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, Geelong, Melbourne, Traralgon, and Bairnsdale.
