26th August 2024, Severe Weather Warning

Weather Situation: A cold front forecast to cross Tasmania this evening is expected to bring very strong north-westerly winds across Tasmania today.

For Northern Tasmania: DAMAGING NORTHWESTERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 100 km/h are expected to develop from late this morning.

For western, southern, and eastern Tasmania: DAMAGING NORTHWESTERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 110 km/h are expected to develop during this morning. Locally DESTRUCTIVE NORTHWESTERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 80 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 125 km/h are likely about elevated terrain and parts of the East Coast between Swansea and Orford from late this morning.

Winds are expected to ease about southern and eastern areas, and DESTRUCTIVE WINDS are expected to cease, tonight behind the cold front. However, DAMAGING WESTERLY WINDS are likely to continue about western and northern coasts during Wednesday.

Locations which may be affected include Devonport, Burnie, Launceston, St Helens, Swansea, Strahan, New Norfolk and Hobart.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Supervise children closely.
* Check that family and neighbours are aware of warnings.
* Manage pets and livestock.
* Secure outdoor items including furniture and play equipment.
* Be prepared in case of power outages and report any outages to TasNetworks on 132 004.
* Beware of damaged trees and power lines and take care when driving.
* Listen to the ABC radio or check www.ses.tas.gov.au for further advice.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132500.

The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 11:00 am AEST Tuesday.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.