A powerful winter storm impacted the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales on Saturday, August 2, producing rare heavy snowfall in elevated regions and widespread hazardous conditions across the area.
According to the New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES), snow accumulation of up to 50 cm (20 inches) was reported near Guyra and Armidale, stranding more than 200 vehicles and causing significant transport disruptions.
The New England Highway, Waterfall Way, and Oxley Highway were all closed due to snow cover, black ice, flooding, and fallen trees. SES confirmed that some drivers were trapped overnight, with rescue efforts continuing into the afternoon.
In addition to snowfall, parts of the region recorded rainfall totals between 65 mm and 130 mm (2.5–5 inches), increasing flood risks on local rivers, including the Peel and Namoi.
Wind gusts of 90–100 km/h (56–62 mph) were recorded in multiple locations, with damage to power lines and infrastructure reported.
The SES responded to 745 incidents in the 24 hours to 16:30 local time on Saturday, deploying over 1 000 volunteers statewide as part of a coordinated emergency response. Reports indicate that 28–34 weather alerts were issued during the peak of severe weather.
Guyra, situated at approximately 1 330 m (4 364 feet) elevation, reported over 15 cm (6 inches) of snow by midday, with some unofficial estimates reaching 40 cm (16 inches). Armidale, at a lower elevation, recorded between 10 and 14 cm (4–5.5 inches), marking its heaviest snow in more than a decade.
It is worth noting that snowfall of this magnitude is rare in the region, which typically sees measurable snow only once every few years. Accumulations exceeding 15 cm (6 inches) over these areas are historically exceptional.
Source: watchers.news
