Severe weather forecast for the Victorian southwest coast
Published on 23 May 2025
The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) is advising the public of a severe weather event forecast to impact the southwest coast over the coming days.
For public safety, Princetown Recreation Reserve will be temporarily closed from tonight (Friday) until further notice. This precaution follows the activation of our Emergency Management Plan.
All current campers at Princetown are being safely relocated to Port Campbell Recreation Reserve, where our ground crew will also be based. No new bookings will be accepted at Princetown until at least Monday 26 May, pending weather developments. Signage is in place to advise of the closure.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast damaging winds and hazardous coastal conditions from Saturday through Tuesday, with wind gusts potentially exceeding 100km/h, particularly across exposed coastal areas and elevated parts of the region.
We urge all local and visitors travelling cross the region to:
- Drive to the conditions, as roads may become slippery and hazardous
- Stay well clear of cliffs, unstable edges, and swollen waterways
- Plan ahead by checking local conditions and park access before travelling
- Download the VicEmergency App for real-time updates and warnings
- For further updates, please monitor the VicEmergency App.
Quote attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Interim Chief Executive Officer, Christine Ferguson:
“The safety of our visitors, staff, and the broader community is our top priority. We’re asking everyone to be alert, stay informed, and take care over the coming days as this weather system moves through.”