19 July 2019
Emergency services are encouraging people to take care if they are visiting the snow this winter.
People who are skiing, snowboarding or hiking in back country alpine areas should always exercise caution and remain alert at all times.
Visitors to the Alpine National Park, especially those visiting the higher elevation areas of Mount Bogong and Mount Feathertop, are likely to encounter a range of hazards in winter including unstable and deep snow, steep icy slopes, cornice formation, avalanches and extreme weather.
Cold, wet and windy conditions are a dangerous combination in alpines area and dramatic weather changes are common.
Always check the current and forecast weather, snowpack and be aware of hazards. Backcountry visitors should not travel alone, notify someone where they are travelling and when they will make next contact.
Those driving the area should take care, stay on main roads and observe any road closures. It’s important for people to stay informed and attuned to the conditions.
Check VicTraffic website www.vicroads.vic.gov.au (External link) for road closures or call 13 11 70. For information about staying safe in the snow visit www.snowsafe.org.au (External link)
For current and forecast weather for the alpine region visit www.bom.gov.au/australia/alpine (External link)
The department acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present.