Snow enthusiasts are in for a late winter treat, with the biggest storm of the season now dumping snow in the resorts.
An intense, strong cold front is currently passing across the Snowy Mountains that will deliver bucket loads of snow. It is accompanied by damaging winds.
As of 8.30pm Wednesday, there had been 16cm of new snow after heavy snow started falling late afternoon into the evening.
By Thursday morning, the 24 hour total should exceed 20cm across most resorts. This will wipe away the memory of the past 24 hours, where wet weather had set in.
The good news is the biggest falls yet to come, the snow will continue to fall until Saturday morning.
Over 60cm of snow seems likely during the storm.
Besides great conditions in the coming days for the powder hounds, it has set up the spring season as one of the best in recent memory. The current snow depth is about 160cm, and this storm will see the depth exceed the 200cm depth.
The snow will fall to 1100m elevation on Thursday and then lower further on Friday to around 800m elevation.
“When the cold air arrives on Wednesday we are set for day after day of snow,” said Melbourne weather and snow forecaster Jane Bunn in her report earlier this week.
“This is the big one - a metre of snow over about four to five days is highly likely for many alpine resorts,” said Jane Bunn in her latest blog.
“Once the cold air arrives on Wednesday, it isn't going anywhere for a while - and it all culminates in a sharp cold outbreak later on Friday into Saturday that should ensure not just snow about alpine elevations, but low levels as well.”
The resorts can expect strong winds across the alpine area that will affect some lifts in the coming days. Check with your resort each morning for the latest updates.
The weekend will produce great skiing and snowboarding conditions, with the storm easing on Saturday and on Sunday, the weather is likely to be at its best with the sun shining.
Road conditions will deteriorate in coming days, visibility could be poor, and motorists are urged to proceed with caution and carry chains as they will be needed. Fit chains when directed by authorities.
Batten down the hatches and enjoy the snow when you are at your preferred resort.
