The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds across higher elevations of the Snowy Mountains. The winds, expected to impact the region ahead of a cold front from today, July 8, are forecast to increase in severity through the afternoon and evening.
PHOTO: Damaging winds are expected to increase through Tuesday afternoon CREDIT: BOM
According to a BOM spokesperson, the warning, which applies to the Snowy Mountains, is a result of a series of in-coming cold fronts. “The initial cold front will sweep across New South Wales between Tuesday and early Wednesday, bringing damaging northwesterly winds to the southern and central ranges,” the BOM spokesperson advised.
“As these winds increase ahead of the front, alpine peaks above 1,900 metres can expect northwesterly winds averaging 80 to 90 km/h, with isolated gusts reaching 100 to 110 km/h.”
MAP: Areas likely impacted – Severe weather warning issued July 8, 10:39am CREDIT: BOM
Meanwhile, blizzard conditions are possible in the Snowy Mountains above 1,500 metres from late this afternoon through to early Wednesday and could redevelop late Wednesday night.
Higher elevations including Thredbo and Perisher are more likely to be affected, with residents and visitors in these areas advised to secure loose items, avoid unstable trees, and stay clear of downed power lines.
For those planning snowsports activities after the BOM’s weather warning passes, the Mountain Watch forecast suggests a promising week ahead. Between Tuesday July 8, to Friday July 11, snowfalls ranging from 25 to 40 centimetres are anticipated within the Australian Alps, with higher elevations potentially receiving in excess of 50 centimetres. The storm system comprises two primary fronts, with most snow expected on late Tuesday and again on Thursday.
PHOTO: Conditions forecast for Thursday are expected to deliver snowfalls CREDIT: BOM
According to Mountain Watch, these conditions set up a potential “Powder Day” for Thursday, July 10, with favourable conditions on the cards for confident skiers and snowboarders. However, it is noted that with strong winds forecast to persist alongside possible blizzard snowfall throughout Thursday, visibility and safety on the slopes could be impacted.
The BOM’s severe weather warning is expected to ease by early Wednesday morning. Residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant and monitor updates. The BOM plans to release the next Severe Weather Warning by 5:00 pm AEST today.
UPDATE:
In a severe weather warning issued at 10am this morning, a spokesperson for the BOM said, “A cold front continues to move eastwards over the southern half of the state, moving offshore today.”
“Strengthening winds will range from northwest to southwesterly in the wake of the system, and bring damaging winds across southeastern and central eastern parts of NSW.”
MAP: Areas likely impacted – Severe weather warning issued July 10, 10:00am CREDIT: BOM
This warning is in place for parts of the Snowy Mountains, ACT and South West Slopes above 1300 metres: Strong westerly winds with damaging wind gusts in excess of 90 km/h are likely today, and continuing into this evening.
Also impacted, the Illawarra, south coast ranges, and eastern parts of the central and southern tablelands: Strong west to southwesterly winds with damaging wind gusts to around 100 km/h are developing this morning and will continue into this evening.
Winds are forecast to ease below damaging thresholds during Friday morning, July 11, though winds will remain blustery throughout the day.