Australia’s south-east is bracing for fierce wind gusts reaching up to 125km/h, driven by what meteorologists describe as the “most powerful cold front of the year”. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued alerts indicating that hazardous winds exceeding 90km/h are anticipated across southern South Australia, Victoria, the snowy regions of New South Wales (NSW), and certain areas of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Winds that began to affect the South Australian coast late yesterday are expected to make their way to Adelaide today, before continuing into Victoria and NSW. While conditions may start to improve later today and into Tuesday, the eastern parts of NSW could still face risks tomorrow, with added showers expected in regions already impacted by flooding.
Forecasters caution that prolonged dry weather and drought have left trees in south-east Australia weakened, making them susceptible to being uprooted by the strong winds. Additionally, powerlines are at risk of being knocked down, leading to potential power outages.
There are also warnings of raised dust in lower areas and the possibility of blizzards in alpine regions, as the advancing cold front is forecast to bring snowfall. Coastal regions are not exempt from the inclement weather, with waves anticipated to reach heights of eight to ten metres along the South Australian coastline, including Adelaide. Victoria is also expected to experience unusually high tides today and tomorrow, raising concerns about possible coastal damage and erosion.
Authorities are urging the public to stay informed about ongoing weather warnings available on the Bureau of Meteorology’s website as hazardous conditions continue to develop.