"Severe Storms Batter Tasmania: Two Lives Lost, Widespread Damage, and Power Outages Across the Region"

Severe Weather Hits Tasmania: Two Dead, Widespread Damage and Power Outages

Tasmania, Australia — A severe weather system has wreaked havoc across Tasmania, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals, significant damage to infrastructure, and widespread power outages affecting thousands. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued ongoing weather warnings as the system continues to impact the southeastern regions of Australia, including parts of Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.

Fatalities and Emergency Response

The fatalities occurred on Friday afternoon when a tree fell on a private property in Tasmania’s north-west. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene shortly after 12:10 PM, but unfortunately, the victims could not be saved. In light of this tragedy, local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution as the risk of falling trees and branches remains high.

Chris Irvine, an acting assistant director at Tasmania’s State Emergency Service (SES), reported that while the most intense winds have subsided, gusts of 100 km/h to 110 km/h are still expected throughout the afternoon. "Members of the public should take all precautions for their own personal safety," Irvine advised.

Infrastructure Damage and Power Outages

The extreme weather has caused significant damage to infrastructure, including the Mersey Community Hospital in Tasmania’s north-west, which sustained weather-related damage. As a result, ambulances have been diverted, and non-emergency patients are being advised to seek alternative services. The hospital is currently operating at reduced capacity, according to the state health department.

Power outages have affected over 20,000 homes across Tasmania, particularly in the north and north-west regions. Energy provider Tasnetworks reported that multiple powerlines were brought down due to the severe winds. The company has warned that outages could increase, especially in remote areas where restoration efforts may take up to 72 hours.

Weather Warnings and Forecast

The BoM has issued flood watches and state-wide weather warnings for Tasmania, predicting continued severe winds into Saturday morning along with further rainfall throughout the weekend. The SES reported receiving 72 requests for assistance on Friday, primarily related to wind damage.

In addition to Tasmania, weather warnings are in effect for parts of Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia. Damaging wind gusts are expected to persist in areas around Mount Gambier and western Victoria until Friday afternoon, with warnings extending to eastern Victoria and southeastern New South Wales until the evening.

Transportation Disruptions

The severe weather has also disrupted air travel, with Qantas canceling flights scheduled to arrive at Devonport Airport and one flight from Melbourne to Launceston. Fallen trees have obstructed several roads across the state, including access to the pinnacle of Hobart’s kunanyi/Mt Wellington.

Wind Speeds and Impact

The most destructive winds have been recorded in Tasmania’s north-east, with gusts reaching as high as 139 km/h at Scotts Peak. Exposed areas have experienced winds exceeding 120 km/h, according to the SES. The agency continues to monitor the situation closely and is prepared to respond to further emergencies as the weather system evolves.

As Tasmania grapples with the aftermath of this severe weather event, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for ongoing challenges in the coming days.