A significant weather event is unfolding across southeastern Australia, with two powerful weather systems combining to create hazardous conditions for the region. Beginning Monday, the systems are expected to bring damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and blizzard-like conditions to many areas. The combination of these factors has prompted severe weather warnings from meteorologists, who are urging residents to take necessary precautions.
As the cold front moves eastward, it will bring more than just rain. Ski resorts, already facing a busy season, are also bracing for heavy snowfall, with some areas expecting up to 50cm of snow. The next few days will test Australia’s southeast, with the worst of the conditions expected to stretch into midweek.
Severe Weather Warnings for Multiple States
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for several regions across South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales, as strong winds are set to develop through Monday and Tuesday. Areas such as the Mount Lofty Ranges, Kangaroo Island, and the Riverland districts in South Australia will experience gusts, while parts of Victoria and New South Wales, including the Snowy Mountains and South Coast, are also on alert for damaging winds.
These gusts are expected to last until Tuesday, with the storm systems continuing to push eastward. Sky News Meteorologist Rob Sharpe emphasized that this weather event, which began as separate low-pressure systems, will soon merge, intensifying conditions for the southeast.
Heavy Rainfall and Snow for Ski Resorts
One of the most notable impacts of this weather event will be the heavy snowfall expected in ski resorts across Victoria and New South Wales. In particular, resorts like Mount Buller, Falls Creek, and Perisher are bracing for substantial snowfalls, with forecasts predicting up to 50cm of snow over the next few days. For skiers, this is expected to provide excellent conditions later in the week.
However, the weather will be far from ideal for many other areas. The cold front will bring significant rainfall to parts of northeastern Victoria and southern New South Wales, with totals in some areas potentially reaching up to 100mm. Locations like Swan Hill and Cobar could see up to 10mm, while more mountainous regions like Mount Buller are expecting rain and snow mixed in.
Wind and Snow Levels to Impact Lower Altitudes
Alongside heavy rain, low-level snow is expected to fall across a wide range of altitudes. In Tasmania, snow is forecast to start at 500m, while in Victoria, snowfall will begin around 700m. Parts of New South Wales will also experience snowfalls from as low as 800m to 1000m. The combination of low-level snow and powerful winds will create blizzard conditions in several areas, further complicating travel and daily activities.
As temperatures drop sharply, snow will likely accumulate rapidly in higher altitudes, especially at ski resorts. The potential for snowdrifts and white-out conditions could lead to challenging travel for anyone heading into affected areas.
Dry Conditions to Return by Thursday
While conditions will remain harsh throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, clearer skies are expected by Thursday morning. The precipitation will ease, and the snowstorms will begin to subside, leaving behind calmer conditions. Ski resorts and the surrounding areas will benefit from improved weather, providing an opportunity for outdoor activities once the storms have passed.
The dramatic shift from intense snow and wind to clear skies will offer a brief window for those looking to enjoy the slopes or other outdoor activities before another round of wintry weather returns.
