Heavy snowstorms caused major disruptions across southeastern Australia over the weekend, leaving several drivers and hikers stranded overnight in freezing temperatures. More than a dozen people were trapped in their vehicles on treacherous, snow-covered roads before emergency crews came to their rescue.
At Mt Hotham in Victoria, recent snowfall reached a staggering 63 centimeters, creating hazardous conditions for travelers. According to Victoria Police, 13 individuals were rescued late Friday night after their vehicles became immobilized by the thick snow around 10:30 p.m. Among them, a man in his 40s sustained minor injuries when his vehicle rolled over during the chaos.
Authorities have urged all visitors to strictly follow road closure signs to ensure that emergency services can safely and efficiently carry out further operations in the area.
Meanwhile, across the border in New South Wales, the town of Orange experienced a picturesque white transformation as snow blanketed the region, marking an ideal kickoff to the ski season on the King’s Birthday long weekend. The snowfall was widespread across the state’s elevated regions, particularly the southern, central, and northern Tablelands.
The Bureau of Meteorology reported snowfall in various locations, including Cooma, Orange, Guyra, Jindabyne, Ben Lomond, the Blue Mountains, and Oberon, with snow accumulating along many parts of the NSW ranges. The snowstorm continued to intensify at popular ski resorts in both Victoria and NSW, adding to the 40 to 60 centimeters already recorded over the weekend.
According to meteorologists, snow showers were expected to persist through Monday across ranges and tablelands above 900 meters in elevation. Although the wintry conditions are forecast to ease later in the week, colder temperatures are likely to continue, with snow showers gradually becoming limited to alpine resorts starting Tuesday.
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