In the 24 hours to 0900 this morning, Tasmania SES crews have responded to 44 requests for assistance across Tasmania as severe weather and rain pounded the state.

A wind gust of 131km/hr was recorded at kunanyi (Mount Wellington) last night and gusts up to 65km/h were recorded at Devonport Airport.

“There are also two Flood Advice Warnings – Monitor Conditions current for Huon River (Tahune Bridge to Judbury and Surround) and Styx River at Bruces Bridge (Styx, Westerway, Bushy Park and Glenora) as a result of the weather event,” said Acting SES Assistant Director, Cheryl Ames.

“One Severe Weather Warning remains in place for people in King Island, Furneaux Islands, Western and parts of South East, North West Coast and Central North Forecast Districts,” she said.

“Damaging westerly winds averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts around 100 km/h are possible about western and northern coasts, and nearby inland areas today before gradually easing below severe thresholds overnight tonight.”

“With damaging winds and rainfall continuing it’s important that people keep up to date with the weather forecast and warnings and remain safe.”

“The combination of high soil moisture and damaging to destructive wind speeds increases the chances of trees being brought down.”

“We will continue to monitor the rain levels, with the possibility of widespread minor flooding due to catchments across Tasmania being relatively wet due to recent rainfall.”

“As always, our dedicated SES volunteer crews will be available to support the community if and where needed, however, we’re urging all Tasmanians to prepare appropriately and continue to monitor the conditions.”

Commander Jason Elmer from Tasmania Police said that motorists are urged to drive with caution today as strong winds overnight may have caused unexpected debris on the road.

“Overnight police responded to 40 individual jobs across the state due to road hazards, including fallen trees and water on the road.”

“Please remember to be safe on the roads, slow down, put your headlights on, and never walk, ride or drive through flood water on the roads, you never know what is beneath the water” he said.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should continue to:

  • 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 but never go near fallen power lines
  • Beware of damaged trees and power lines and drive to the conditions.
  • Do not walk, ride or drive through flood waters.

In an emergency people should always phone Triple Zero (000).

“If you need assistance from our SES volunteer crews please call 132 500,” said Ms Ames.

SES advises that people can stay up to date with: