Cold wave alert as Australians face record-low temperatures, widespread frost outbreak
Image credit: GFS/Tropical Tidbits
Millions of Australians are facing record-breaking sub-zero temperatures as an icy blast sweeps across the country from July 28 to August 2, 2024. A strong high-pressure ridge is causing dry conditions and frosty mornings, with temperatures plummeting below seasonal averages in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and other regions.
A cold air mass linked to a strong cold front caused temperatures to drop sharply across southeastern Australia late last week. This polar air brought snow to the Australian Alps and even caused snowfall at unusually low elevations outside the alpine regions.
The cold weather persisted into the weekend and is expected to continue in parts of southeastern Australia for the next few days, affecting millions of Australians.
On July 30, New South Wales (NSW) will face “unusually low” temperatures, according to BOM meteorologist Jiwon Park. The cold weather, driven by a strong high-pressure ridge, will bring dry conditions and frosty mornings until mid-week.
Central and southern NSW, including the Lower Central West, South West Slopes, and eastern Riverina, are forecast to see temperatures below July records. Temora is expected to hit -7 °C (19.4 °F), breaking its record of -6.4 °C (20.5 °F).
Other areas such as Young, Forbes, and Parkes will also face freezing conditions. “If we are seeing -6 degrees tomorrow morning, it will either be reaching the record or record-breaking July minimum temperatures,” Mr. Park said.
Across NSW, minimum temperatures will be below seasonal averages. Wagga Wagga is expected to hit -6 °C (21.2 °F), Orange -4 °C (24.8 °F), and Tamworth -3 °C (26.6 °F). Canberra experienced -3.5 °C (25.7 °F) on July 29 and will see similar frosty starts throughout the week, with lows of -4 °C (24.8 °F) on July 30, -3 °C (26.6 °F) on July 31, and -1 °C (30.2 °F) on August 1 and 2.
Queensland also suffers from the chilly weather, with temperatures 3 – 6 °C (5.4 – 10.8 °F) below the July average.
“The widespread outbreak, which began on July 28, is expected to increase in size and stature into July 30 and 31,” Sky News Weather Meteorologist Rob Sharpe said, adding that a widespread frost outbreak will take shape across the country.
In NSW, the Bureau of Meteorology issued a warning to sheep graziers in several regions due to the cold. Despite this, Sydney will be warmer, with maximum temperatures between 16 °C (60.8 °F) and 19 °C (66.2 °F), though possible showers and winds may increase the chill factor.
Melbourne is forecasted for a cold and cloudy week with showers, with a minimum of 7 °C (44.6 °F) and a high of 14 °C (57.2 °F) on July 29, dropping to 3 °C (37.4 °F) and 13 °C (55.4 °F) on July 31.
South Australia has a frost warning in place for the Mount Lofty Ranges and other areas, with temperatures between -2 °C (28.4 °F) to -4 °C (24.8 °F). Adelaide will see mostly sunny days with temperatures ranging from 4 °C (39.2 °F) to 15 °C (59 °F) on July 29, and 6 °C (42.8 °F) to 16 °C (60.8 °F) on July 30.
In Western Australia, a cold front will bring storms and showers, particularly south of Perth.
The cold snap has brought significant snowfall to the ACT, Victoria’s east, and NSW’s Central Tablelands above 800 m (2 624.7 feet). Thredbo saw 170 mm (6.7 inches) of snow on July 28, with more possible on July 29. Mt Buller in Victoria reported 160 mm (6.3 inches) of fresh snow over the weekend.
Snow fell in low-lying areas of the Central Tablelands, eastern Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory due to a cold airmass combined with low clouds and moist winds.
Weatherzone reported flurries at elevations nearly 400 m (1 312.3 feet) while Sydney felt colder than freezing on July 28 due to gale-force winds but saw no snow.
The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts 16 °C (60.8 °F) in Sydney, 12 °C (53.6 °F) in Melbourne, and 11 °C (51.8 °F) in Canberra on July 29, with Canberra’s temperature dropping below -4 °C (24.8 °F) at 06:30 (LT) on July 29.
A severe weather warning is in effect for Lord Howe Island, with waves up to 5 m (16.4 feet) expected. Sheep graziers in NSW and Victoria have been warned about potential dangers to their flocks due to the cold.
References:
1 Widespread frost outbreak’ brings subzero temperatures for parts of Australia – News.com.au – July 29, 2024
2 Snow falls on multiple states as freezing cold sweeps Australia – 9NEWS – July 29, 2024
3 Cold snap sending shivers across southeastern Australia – WeatherZone – July 29, 2024
Rishav is a skilled researcher specializing in extreme and severe weather reporting. He combines exceptional research capabilities with scientific precision to deliver clear, data-driven articles. Known for uncovering critical information, Rishav ensures his work is accurate, insightful, and impactful. His passion for both science and literature fuels his dedication to producing high-quality news articles. You can reach him at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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