Janice R. Andrews
Australia is bracing for a rare summer snow event and a destructive cyclone this weekend, as extreme weather grips the nation. A winter-like cold snap will blanket the southeast, while Tropical Cyclone Zelia threatens northern regions with devastating winds and intense rainfall.
Summer Snow Strikes Southeast
In an unusual twist, snow is predicted to fall across the Tasmanian and Victorian Alps this weekend. According to 7News meteorologist Jane Bunn, the cold snap will bring a dusting of snow from Saturday night into Sunday morning. This rare summer phenomenon is driven by cold air from Antarctica, plunging temperatures across the region.
Melbourne, which soared to 30°C earlier this week, will drop to a chilly 20°C by Saturday afternoon. Hobart will peak at just 16°C, while Adelaide, which experienced low 40s earlier this week, will see temperatures plummet to the low 20s. Bunn warned that the cold weather will persist through much of next week, with maximum temperatures 5-6°C below average in some areas.
While summer snow is uncommon, it’s not unprecedented. In December 2013, a cold front blanketed Perisher in NSW with heavy snow. This weekend’s event, though less severe, will still deliver a picturesque dusting to alpine regions.
Cyclone Zelia Threatens Northern WA
Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Zelia is set to make landfall in northern Western Australia, bringing destructive winds and heavy rainfall. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts the cyclone will intensify to a category three system before crossing the Pilbara or west Kimberley coast on Friday. Wind gusts of up to 220km/h are expected between Whim Creek and Wallal Downs, posing a significant threat to lives and property.
Port Hedland has already shut down, and BHP has paused non-essential travel to the area. Authorities are working to ensure supplies reach rural, Indigenous, and isolated communities, with flood boats, aircraft, and additional personnel pre-deployed. An evacuation center will open in Port Hedland as warnings escalate.
The cyclone is expected to dump over 500mm of rain, with major roads and arterial routes likely to be impacted for up to a week. Residents from Bidyadanga to Dampier are urged to stay updated and prepare for severe conditions.
Flood Clean-Up Continues in Queensland
In north Queensland, communities are still recovering from nearly two weeks of flooding that claimed two lives and forced hundreds to evacuate. While record rainfall has eased, flood warnings remain in place, and the region faces a long road to recovery.
Weekend Weather Across Australia
- Sydney: Cloudy with temperatures reaching 24°C on Saturday and 20°C on Monday.
- Brisbane: Hot and humid, with temperatures hitting 30°C on Friday, 31°C on Saturday, and 33°C on Sunday.
- Perth: Sunny and warm, with highs of 32°C on Friday, 35°C on Saturday, and 32°C on Sunday.
Stay Prepared
As Australia faces this dual weather crisis, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Whether preparing for snow in the southeast or bracing for Cyclone Zelia in the north, safety remains the top priority. Follow official updates and warnings to navigate this extreme weather event.
This rare summer snow and powerful cyclone highlight the unpredictability of Australia’s climate, reminding us to always expect the unexpected.
