The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued severe weather warnings for the Snowy Mountains region as a complex low-pressure system moves in bringing locally destructive winds, and heavy rainfall. Forecasts indicate that the wet weather will pick up throughout today, before intensifying overnight into Wednesday, July 2, with the Snowy River catchment on flood watch as a result.
PHOTO: A complex low-pressure system will impact the region from today CREDITS: BOM
According to the BOM’s forecasted rainfall totals for Wednesday, July 2, Cooma could expect between 20-50mm, Bombala 40-80mm, Nimmitabel 35-70mm, and Jerangle 25-60mm. According to a NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Cooma-Monaro Unit spokesperson, “While most of the system is focussed on the coast, we have showers increasing here from Tuesday, with strong wind and heavy rainfall forecast for Wednesday.”
Damaging south to south-westerly wind gusts around 90 km/h are possible in parts of the Snowy Mountains region. Winds may persist through to Wednesday morning in the Central Tablelands and southern ranges.
PHOTO: Rainfall totals of up-to 80mm have been forecast for parts of the Snowy Mountains alongside winds of around 90 km/h.
For snow enthusiasts, the system could bring further snowfall to the ski fields tomorrow. According to Mountain Watch, reports indicate that snow totals could vary significantly, ranging from 10 to 40cm at Thredbo. The range in the forecast due to the possibility of small shifts in the storm’s position.
“There’s a big disparity likely between the upper and lower elevations. However, small changes in the storm’s position could drastically change these numbers, as well as the weather,” a Mountain Watch spokesperson noted.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
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For emergency help in floods and storms, call us on 132 500.