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Snow — Advice
Blue Mountains, Lithgow and surrounding areas snow - Prepare now

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NSW State Emergency Service

NSW State Emergency Service

Advice

Prepare now

Advice

The NSW SES advises people in the following area(s) to PREPARE NOW for blizzard conditions:

  • Lithgow
  • Blackheath
  • Meadlow Bath
  • Katoomba
  • Megalong Valley
  • Leura
  • Wentworth Falls
  • Hazelbrook
  • Springwood

What are we expecting?

The Bureau of Meteorology advises storms continue about a vigorous cold front crossing southern New South Wales today.

Based on predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, the following impacts may occur:

  • heavy rain
  • damaging winds
  • blizzard conditions

What you need to do:

  • Monitor warnings issued by NSW SES on our website and Facebook page and check the latest weather information from the Bureau of Meteorology online.
  • Prepare your house. Check roof gutters are clear and that you have sufficient food and heating supplies to last a number of days.
  • Prepare an emergency kit in case you lose power or need to leave your home.
  • Move livestock and companion animals to safe shelter.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel. If you do need to travel, plan to avoid potentially snow affected roads and consider different ways to get to where you need to go.
  • Ensure you have safe alternate cooking, heating and water supply options in case the power supply is disrupted. Some equipment such as gas and charcoal barbeques and heaters release carbon monoxide and should only be used in well-ventilated areas or outside.
  • Exposure to cold temperatures can cause hypothermia, wear suitable waterproof protective clothing when outdoors.
  • Consider exposure to cold temperatures and if possible, limit time outdoors.
  • Secure or put away items that could blow around in strong winds.
  • Where possible park your vehicle under cover to ensure it is not blocked in by snow if you do need to travel.
  • Consider the potential for isolation if roads become blocked and stock up on essential items now.
  • Consider the consequences of road conditions and closures and make alternate arrangements for work, children, and travel.
  • Do not go sightseeing as this may put yourself and others at risk.
  • Beware the dangers of black ice when driving or walking on hard surfaces. Reduce your speed and exercise caution.
  • Driving in snow or icy conditions requires a high level of concentration, skill and a lot of patience. Only drive through snow or ice if it is essential.
  • If you become stranded when driving, keep your engine running, put your hazard lights on and remain with the vehicle after calling for help.
  • Ensure snow chains are carried when driving in snow conditions.
  • Share this information with family, friends, and neighbours and help others prepare where possible.
  • Monitor the local situation by watching the weather around you.

For more information:


For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

Media enquiries: [email protected] or call 1800 067 234