Weekend cold snap for SE Australia

Boaters and holidaymakers are advised to prepare for a burst of cold weather over the weekend which will see temperatures drop to zero in many locations in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.

Bureau of Meteorology New South Wales Regional Director Barry Hanstrum said the conditions were associated with a series of cold fronts that will begin moving through the state on Friday, and continue over the weekend.

"We’re expecting temperatures will plummet, winds will be fresh to strong, and snow will fall down to low elevations," Mr Hanstrum said.

Temperatures are expected to drop to single digits or below zero across the south east during the nights and mornings. The fronts will bring snow to the Australian Alpine region on Saturday which will extend right along the Great Dividing Range on Sunday.

Mr Hanstrum advised that anyone planning outdoor activities this weekend, such as bushwalking, camping, boating, and skiing, should keep a close eye on weather forecasts and warnings, and plan carefully for the cold conditions.

"Following a slow start to the snow season, this weather system could benefit snow enthusiasts with more snowfall expected in the Alps well into next week," Mr Hanstrum said.

Commissioner Dent added that snow can also cause power outages.

For further information go to the Bureau's website for the latest Warnings and Forecasts.

The Bureau is also using Twitter to disseminate significant weather information for the community. The Bureau's website remains the most up-to-date and comprehensive official source of information.