Wild winds rip through Tasmania

Destructive winds have lashed Tasmania late last night and today as a vigorous cold front stormed across the state, leaving thousands without power and bringing down trees and powerlines.

The wild winds whipped up across the Apple Isle late last night and early this morning, with large areas of the state recording wind gusts in excess of 90km/h (regarded as 'damaging' by Bureau of Meteorology criteria). This included some major centres of the state, with Hobart recording wind gusts to 93km/h, Strahan 113km/h and Devonport 96km/h.

However, some western and southern areas felt the full force of the front, with Maatsuyker Island recording gusts to 163km/h (its strongest winds since April), Scotts Peak 150km/h and Mount Wellington 132km/h.

The winds resulted in widespread damage across the state, with thousands of people left without power, and many reports of fallen trees and powerlines.

Ben Lomond Ski Lodge had to be evacuated as the winds lifted part of the roof and sent corrugated iron sheets flying.

Winds will remain strong and gusty for the remainder of the afternoon, before easing this evening and overnight.

Image 1. EC wind gusts over Tasmania, 4am Wednesday 15th August, 2018