Severe Weather Warning: Damaging Winds Forecast for Hobart and Southeast Tasmania

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Weather Warning (IDT21037) for damaging winds. This high-priority alert is currently in effect for the South East and parts of the Western, Upper Derwent Valley, East Coast, and Midlands Forecast Districts.

Affected Areas

The warning covers a broad region of southern and eastern Tasmania. Specific locations that may be impacted include Hobart, New Norfolk, Geeveston, Dover, Strathgordon, and Bushy Park.

Expected Conditions

A cold front passing over Tasmania is generating a vigorous north to northwesterly wind flow. Residents should expect damaging northwesterly winds averaging between 60 and 70 km/h. Peak wind gusts are likely to exceed 100 km/h in parts of southeast Tasmania, including the Hobart area. As of 1:20 pm, sustained winds of 68 km/h have already been recorded at Hobart.

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Supervise children closely and ensure family and neighbors are aware of the warning.
• Manage pets and livestock appropriately.
• Secure all outdoor items, including furniture and play equipment.
• Prepare for potential power outages; report any outages to TasNetworks at 132 004.
• Exercise caution while driving and remain alert for damaged trees and downed power lines.
• Listen to ABC radio or visit www.ses.tas.gov.au for further advice.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132500.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 1:43 pm AEDT on Sunday, February 22, 2026. The damaging wind conditions are expected to persist throughout the afternoon before dropping below warning thresholds during the evening hours. The next update is scheduled to be issued by 5:00 pm AEDT.