Weather warnings Melbourne today: damaging to locally destructive winds, power outage risk, and travel advice

Bassyonni

ago 8 hours

Weather warnings Melbourne

A high-impact wind event is sweeping across Victoria today (Wednesday, 22 October), with Melbourne under a Severe Weather Warning for damaging winds and nearby coastal and elevated areas facing locally destructive gusts. The strongest winds are expected from early afternoon into the evening, tapering overnight as the system shifts east.

What’s in effect for Melbourne and nearby districts

Warning type: Severe Weather Warning — damaging winds across the Central district, including Melbourne, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula, and into South Gippsland later.
Peak gusts (most likely): 100–120 km/h in exposed suburbs and bayside locations; 80–100 km/h more broadly across metro.
Highest risk zones today: Exposed coastlines and elevations (Otways, Surf Coast, Bass Coast, alpine fringe) where destructive gusts up to ~130 km/h have been flagged for windows this afternoon.
Storms: Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms may accompany the change, briefly enhancing gusts as squall lines pass.

Timing guide (local):

Late morning–early afternoon: Winds strengthening, first peak in the southwest of the state.
Afternoon (approx. 3–7 p.m.): Metro Melbourne peak risk, particularly during school pick-up and the commute.
Late evening–overnight: Gradual easing, lingering strong winds on the ranges and far east.

What this means on the ground

Power and trees: Expect tree falls, flying debris, and localized power outages. Park vehicles clear of large trees and avoid parking under loose signage.
Travel: High-sided vehicles and cyclists are vulnerable on bridges, overpasses, and exposed arterials; allow extra time and consider delaying non-essential trips during the afternoon peak.
Public transport: Gusty conditions can disrupt overheads and debris can affect tracks and roads; check service alerts before travel.
On water: Hazardous conditions for small craft on the bays and coastal waters; recreational boating is not advised.
Construction and events: Secure scaffolding, cranes, marquees, and temporary structures; postpone outdoor setups where possible.

Suburb-by-suburb cues for Melbourne

Bayside & Peninsula (e.g., St Kilda, Brighton, Frankston, Mornington): Long fetch across the Bay can amplify gusts; take extra care near the foreshore.
Western and northern corridors (e.g., Werribee, Tarneit, Tullamarine): Exposed estates and open paddocks increase crosswind risk on freeways.
Foothills & Dandenongs: Channeling along ridgelines can produce sudden squalls; avoid forested roads during the afternoon peak.

Quick checklist before the peak arrives

Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture, bins, trampolines, tools, and shade sails.
Charge phones and power banks; keep a torch handy.
Avoid using chainsaws during peak gusts; report downed lines and stay at least 8–10 metres clear.
If you must drive, slow down, increase following distance, and watch for branches and traffic lights blown off sequence.

Health and community notes

Air quality & asthma: Gust fronts and brief showers can kick up pollen and dust; those with asthma or hay fever should carry medication and follow personal action plans.
Aged care & schools: Review contingencies for early pickups, indoor breaks, and sheltering away from large trees and loose structures.

What to watch for this evening

Second surge: A post-frontal burst can bring another round of strong westerlies; don’t redeploy unsecured items too soon.
Outages: Restoration may roll through the night; treat all fallen wires as live and report via emergency lines.
Road re-openings: Council and SES crews will clear debris after winds ease—obey detours and avoid sightseeing in impacted zones.

Tomorrow’s outlook (early guidance)

Winds ease through Thursday, but remain brisk in exposed coastal and elevated locations. Showers persist in the south and east, with improving conditions for the city during the day.

For Melbourne, plan around a high-wind afternoon and evening with 100–120 km/h gust potential in exposed suburbs and a realistic risk of downed trees and outages. Secure loose items now, adjust travel, and keep clear of coastal and elevated exposures until conditions ease tonight. If life or property is at risk, call 000. For non-urgent storm assistance, contact SES 132 500.