A Bureau of Meterology spokesperson said a cold front is crossing southern NSW, bringing vigorous winds to parts of the southeast.

For areas BELOW 1900 metres:

Damaging winds averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h are possible for the Snowy Mountains, and parts of the ACT, South Coast and Southern Highlands from late Monday night or early Tuesday morning. Higher ground and exposed areas are most susceptible.

RFS operations officer Lachlan Gilchrist described it as a "very disturbing weather report."

"It's an alarming development with winds forecast up to 90km/h on Monday night," he said.

While activity has not increased on the Currowan fire this morning he said the weather conditions were as predicted. He anticipated fire conditions would reach be more in the catastrophic category.

"We feel confident that the messaging to communities (Windellama, Bungonia, Tallong and Marulan) that we gave on the weekend was critical because the weather will impact," he said.

"The community has been very receptive to it. In those conditions people have to enact their bushfire plans and make the decision to get out early."

Meantime, police have announced that the Veolia Arena will be open from 10am Tuesday as a safe place for people affected by the fires to wait out severe conditions and to refresh.

Inspector Keith Price said tea and coffee would be provided. Residents could also sit and wait with their pets.

Authorities will determine whether it's converted to an evacuation centre, according to the fire threat.

For areas ABOVE 1900 metres:

Damaging winds averaging 80 to 90 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 120km/h are possible for Alpine areas from late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

Winds are expected to ease during Tuesday afternoon and evening, although conditions will remain windy throughout the remainder of the day.

Locations which may be affected include Braidwood, Cooma, Bombala, Adaminaby, Nimmitabel and Khancoban.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:

The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 5pm on December 30.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.