Australians across the country are bracing for frosty conditions over the coming days, with chilly morning temperatures predicted to affect every state and territory.
Frost warnings have been issued for several southeastern regions, including Canberra, where temperatures are expected to fall below freezing. Sky News meteorologist Marina Neuman described the frost as “widespread,” with cold weather impacting both the eastern and western parts of Australia.
The frost will cover a broad area, affecting the ACT, most of New South Wales, and parts of Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia. “Every state and territory is likely to experience frost, at least in some areas,” Neuman stated.
Some parts of the southeast already saw “icy cold” conditions on Friday, with Canberra reaching a low of 1.3°C. The capital is expected to drop to –5°C on Saturday, while Sydney’s low will be around 7°C.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued frost warnings for areas in Victoria and South Australia. In northern Victoria, severe frosts could drop temperatures to –4°C, potentially damaging crops. In South Australia, temperatures as low as –1°C are expected in areas like the Mid North, Upper South East, Murraylands, and Riverlands.
A sheep graziers’ warning was also issued for the Snowy Mountains in NSW, with cold temperatures and northwesterly winds expected.
Meanwhile, a rain band has formed over the Gulf of Carpentaria, bringing wet weather to parts of northern Queensland and the Northern Territory. By Sunday evening, the rain is expected to spread eastward, affecting much of eastern Queensland, including areas from Townsville to Brisbane. The rain is expected to continue into Monday morning and clear by the evening as it moves into NSW.
The Bureau of Meteorology noted that while the rain won’t be heavy enough to cause flooding, its timing at the start of the school holidays could make it disruptive.
A cold front is expected to move through the southeast on Sunday, though it will not significantly impact temperatures. The forecast for Sunday includes highs of 19°C in Sydney, 21°C in Port Macquarie, 20°C in Coffs Harbour, and 21°C in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Neuman mentioned that temperatures will remain close to what’s typical for this time of year, but the rain could make it feel cooler in Queensland over the weekend.
Other major cities are also expecting mild temperatures on Sunday, with Melbourne reaching 13°C, Perth 20°C, Adelaide 16°C, Hobart 11°C, Canberra 13°C, and Darwin a warmer 31°C.
