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Southeastern Australia Braces for Winter Blast: Rain, Hail, and Snow Forecast
A winter chill is poised to descend upon southeastern Australia this weekend, as the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) predicts a mix of rain, hail, and even snow in certain regions. Residents should prepare for a significant temperature drop and potentially hazardous weather conditions. This weather shift emphasizes the need to stay informed about localized weather forecasts and heed safety advisories.
New South Wales Anticipates Wet and Windy Conditions
New South Wales is bracing for a “really rough end to the weekend,” according to senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury. The state can expect wet and windy conditions that could pose challenges for drivers and outdoor activities.
Weekend Weather Outlook for NSW
- Sunday: Heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds will concentrate on the south coast.
- Monday and Tuesday: The severe weather shifts towards the Central Coast, potentially creating dangerous driving conditions and hazardous surf.
- Sydney: Maximum temperatures are forecast to reach 21°C on Saturday and 18°C on Sunday, with a moderate to high likelihood of showers and possible coastal thunderstorms on Sunday.
Victoria and Tasmania Prepare for a “Wintry Blast”
Victoria and Tasmania are set to experience a “wintry blast” as a cold front sweeps through the southeast, bringing maximum temperatures down to the low teens. Residents should expect a very chilly weekend.
Key Weather Details:
- Many areas will likely record their coldest day of the year thus far.
- Hail and snow are possible in some locations.
- Overnight temperatures will plummet, particularly from Sunday onward.
- Most regions will see nighttime temperatures dip below 5°C, with parts of Tasmania, regional Victoria, and southern South Australia potentially experiencing temperatures below zero.
- Hobart is expected to reach a high of 11°C on Saturday and 13°C on Sunday.
- Snowfall is possible at 500 meters in Tasmania and 1,000 meters in Victoria, with a chance of flurries around the Grampians.
Wind Gusts and Rainfall Projections
- Wind gusts ranging from 70 to 90 km/h are expected to intensify across the south coast of NSW starting Sunday, extending through the Central Coast on Monday and potentially into Tuesday.
- The Hunter and Central Coast are projected to receive the highest rainfall totals, with two-day accumulations exceeding 150mm.
South Australia Awaits Limited Rainfall
South Australia, currently grappling with a prolonged dry spell, is expected to receive limited showery activity mostly confined to coastal areas, with less than 10 to 15mm anticipated.
Rainfall Deficit Continues
“Unfortunately, for those very, very dry areas through the east and south-east in particular, we’re not looking at any significant rain over the next seven days,” stated Bradbury, underscoring the ongoing drought conditions.
Other States’ Weather Outlook
- South-East Queensland: Showers and thunderstorms are expected on Saturday, clearing by the afternoon. Brisbane can anticipate a high of 26°C and a significant chance of showers on Saturday, which are projected to diminish on Sunday with a high of 26°C.
- Western Australia: Settled and unusually warm conditions persist, with the southwest land division remaining 2 to 5°C above average through the weekend into early next week. Perth is expected to reach temperatures in the mid to high 20s until about next Tuesday.
- Adelaide: Will see maximum temperatures of 17°C across the weekend, with showers on Saturday clearing and mostly sunny by Sunday.
- Darwin: Sunny conditions are expected with a high of 32°C.
- Canberra: Forecast to reach 18°C on Saturday and 13°C on Sunday.