Tasmania faces a significant shift in weather patterns beginning late Saturday as three consecutive cold fronts are set to sweep across the state. According to Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Dean Narramore, the movement of a high-pressure system into the Tasman Sea has cleared the way for this cold air mass, which is expected to bring widespread rain, gusty winds, and a notable drop in temperatures, including snow reaching as low as 600 metres by early next week.
Weekend Weather and Road Conditions
The transition begins on Saturday, which starts dry with temperatures in the low to mid-teens before showers develop across the north and west. A band of rain is expected to move across the state overnight, though eastern areas should remain dry until Sunday morning. For Hobart, the forecast includes 14-degree temperatures on Saturday, dipping to 11 degrees on Sunday with showers, possible hail, and thunder.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a road weather alert for the Central Plateau and Upper Derwent Valley. Drivers are warned that icy roads will create dangerous conditions on Saturday morning. By Sunday, showers will spread statewide, with snow falling above 900 metres and the potential for thunderstorms and hail in the west.
Did You Know? The current cold front follows a week of cold, frosty mornings driven by a high-pressure system that has now shifted into the Tasman Sea.
Mid-Week Snow and Cold Front Progression
The weather pattern will intensify on Monday as a second cold front crosses the state in a strong westerly flow. Meteorologists expect this system to drop snow levels to approximately 600 metres by Monday evening. The southern coast may also experience thunderstorms during this period.
Cold conditions are expected to persist into Tuesday, with snow levels remaining at 600 metres and potential hail in the west and far south. A third cold front is anticipated to arrive on Wednesday, continuing the active weather trend. While these systems bring challenging conditions, they also mark a period of snowfall for alpine areas across Tasmania, Victoria, and New South Wales.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the first cold front arrive?
The first front is expected to cross the state late on Saturday, bringing rain, gusty winds, and colder temperatures.
How low will the snow levels go?
Snow is expected to fall as low as 600 metres by Monday evening and again on Tuesday.
Are there specific areas currently under a weather alert?
Yes, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a road weather alert for parts of the Central Plateau and Upper Derwent Valley due to the risk of icy roads on Saturday morning.
How are you preparing for the colder conditions expected across the state next week?
