Severe weather warning

Bureau of Meteorology
Tasmania

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

Severe Weather Warning

for DAMAGING WINDS

For people in the Upper Derwent Valley, King Island, Furneaux Islands, Western, South East, North East, East Coast, North West Coast, Central North, Central Plateau and Midlands Forecast Districts.
Issued at 8:14 am Wednesday, 14 February 2018.

DAMAGING WINDS FOR ALL OF TASMANIA TODAY
Weather Situation: A squally cold front crosses Tasmania this morning followed by strong and gusty westerly winds.
DAMAGING WEST TO NORTHWESTERLY WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of 110 km/h, are possible in parts of the north and west of Tasmania during today, and the southeast this afternoon. However, isolated DESTRUCTIVE WIND GUSTS in excess of 130 km/h are possible in storms along the north coast until 10 am.
The strongest gusts are expected during the morning and afternoon ahead of and behind the squally cold front crosses the state.
Winds are expected to ease this evening.

Locations which may be affected include Devonport, Burnie, Launceston, St Helens, Swansea, Strahan, New Norfolk and Hobart.
146 km/h wind gust was reported at King Island Airport with the front. 104 km/h wind gust was reported at Wynyard also with the front.

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.
* 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 5pm Wednesday.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au 

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