More Frosty Conditions to hit NSW, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania

Much of southeast Australia is bracing for a significant cold outbreak as a polar blast sweeps across the region, with cities in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania set to experience near-freezing temperatures over the next week.

A deepening low-pressure system over the southern Tasman Sea and a slow-moving high-pressure system in the southern ocean are driving the cold outbreak. As the low pressure pushes towards Tasmania and Victoria by Sunday and Monday, strong, cold southerly winds will bring wet weather to the areas. 

By Sunday, a pool of cold air will move over Victoria and NSW, extending into southern Queensland by Tuesday, resulting in cold and windy conditions at the beginning of the week. Eastern NSW through to southern Queensland will see temperatures drop to single digits on Monday and remain low throughout the day.  Depending on the positioning of the low that develops in the Tasman Sea, some locations may feel much colder than their minimum temperatures due to the wind chill factor. 

Minimum expected temperatures for Southeastern Australia on Wednesday 17 July (image; WeatherWatch Metcentre)

The cold air will continue to affect southeastern Australia from Saturday, with single-digit maximum temperatures likely in higher areas. Snow chasers are in luck, with falls expected in areas including the Blue Mountains, Southern, Central, and Northern Tablelands in NSW, elevated parts of the ACT and Victoria, and possibly right up to southern Queensland. Snowfall is anticipated at higher elevations around 1200m by Sunday night and Monday morning, with the possibility of increased snowfall on Monday and Tuesday due to higher moisture levels.

Minimum expected temperatures for Tasmania on Tuesday 16 July (image; WeatherWatch Metcentre)

Gale-force winds and rain deluges are expected to sweep several states, with gusts exceeding 90 km/hr forecast to hit Tasmania and eastern Victoria on Sunday and Monday. They will extend to NSW and possibly reach Sydney and Illawarra on Monday as well.

The strong winds could topple trees, particularly in NSW, after a prolonged wet period, leading to a waterlogged landscape. Heavy rain will also hammer Tasmania and Victoria from the weekend into early next week, with potential falls of 30mm to 60mm in parts and over 100mm in some areas. The low-pressure system could also bring heavy swell and dangerous surf along the east coast, creating boating hazards and coastal erosion in some areas. 

As millions of residents brace for another cold outbreak, it is crucial to be prepared for the near-freezing temperatures, strong winds, and potential snowfall expected in various regions. 

Stay informed about the latest weather updates from reliable sources, and follow safety advisories to protect yourself and your property during this period of severe weather. Taking necessary precautions, such as securing loose items, avoiding unnecessary travel, and staying indoors during extreme conditions, can help mitigate the impact of this cold snap.