Arabic version: حثّ متنزهو البراري في تسمانيا على الاستعداد لتغيّر الرياح
According to ABC News, Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Urshla Connor has urged bushwalkers in Tasmania to monitor changing conditions and carry equipment suited to the weather they are likely to encounter. Ms Connor, who updates emergency services and media on alpine conditions, said she checks the latest information before beginning a trek.
She said Tasmania’s weather can shift extremely quickly and conditions near the coast can differ markedly from those at higher elevations. Walkers should check current observations and forecasts for their destination through the BOM Weather app or the bureau’s website, including expected temperature, wind and rainfall, she said. They should also watch for Bushwalkers Weather Alerts, Severe Weather Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings.
Ms Connor said strong cold fronts from the Southern Ocean regularly affect Tasmania during winter. As hikers gain elevation, temperatures can fall, winds can strengthen and precipitation can intensify. While many walks begin in sheltered areas, exposed ridgelines and summits can bring much stronger winds, increasing heat loss through wind chill and raising the risk of cold stress and hypothermia.
Snowfall on Tasmania’s peaks, combined with strong winds, can reduce visibility, make tracks slippery and create freezing conditions. The BOM provides apparent, or “feels like”, temperatures in forecasts; an air temperature of 6 degrees Celsius on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington can feel closer to -4C on a windy day. Ms Connor said forecast maps can help walkers assess changing temperatures and wind speeds along a route.
Rescue statistics show mainland tourists account for 27 per cent of rescue operations, while more people have been drawn to Tasmania’s wilderness in recent years. Ms Connor said she carries spare waterproof jackets and extra gear when walking with people new to Tasmanian bushwalking. The bureau is working with Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service and Tasmania Police Search and Rescue to improve weather information and warnings for the community.
