Melbourne is experiencing a burst of wild winter weather today as strong winds and rain move across Victoria. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued damaging wind warnings for several parts of the state, with Melbourne and surrounding areas among the locations affected.

Winds are expected to average around 60–70 km/h, while some gusts could reach approximately 90 km/h. Mt Hotham recorded a gust of 94 km/h as the weather system moved across the state. The strong winds are associated with a trough moving through Victoria and are expected to shift direction before gradually easing during the afternoon.

Melbourne has already experienced heavy, wind-driven rain and dark skies as the system moved across the city. The weather has created challenging conditions for people travelling on roads and using public transport, particularly where strong crosswinds or reduced visibility are present.

The Bureau has advised people in affected areas to take precautions around their homes and workplaces. Loose outdoor objects should be secured because strong winds can move items such as garden furniture, bins and lightweight structures. Residents are also encouraged to stay away from damaged trees and avoid unnecessary exposure to dangerous conditions.

The weather system is affecting a broad area of Victoria rather than Melbourne alone. Warnings have also been issued for central, north-central, northeastern and western parts of the state, as well as South Gippsland and East Gippsland.

Rainfall has also been significant in some regional locations. Bendigo recorded 14.6 millimetres of rain within three hours, while isolated and short-lived thunderstorms developed across western Victoria.

For Melbourne residents, the main concern today is the combination of strong winds, rain and rapidly changing conditions. Motorists should take extra care, particularly on exposed roads and near trees, while pedestrians should be cautious around construction areas and unsecured objects.

The Bureau expects the strongest conditions to ease as the weather system moves through, although showers and isolated storms may continue in some areas.

Residents should continue monitoring official weather warnings as conditions change throughout the day.