Bushwalker's Weather Forecast
Be Prepared
Many tracks are challenging walks in a region of Tasmania exposed to harsh weather conditions. There are often no huts along the tracks. Walkers must be fully self-sufficient, well-equipped and experienced.
Tasmania’s maritime climate means that the weather can change very quickly – in alpine areas, hot and sunny conditions can become squalls, heavy rain, sleet and snowfalls within a very short time. Walkers who are unprepared for such conditions are at risk of hypothermia. Walkers in the Tasmanian highlands have died from this condition in the past.
Walkers must be prepared with warm, windproof and waterproof equipment at any time of the year and in any region of Tasmania.
Before you begin your walk, always check the weather in detail. Weather forecasts can be obtained online from the Bureau of Meteorology. Radar weather loops are also available on the Bureau's web site - see http://mirror.bom.gov.au/products/IDR373.loop.shtml.
Seven day forecasts are available online (see http://www.australianweathernews.com/forecast_OCF.htm ), but be aware that the accuracy of such forecasts is greatly reduced for the later dates.
Visitor centres in many Tasmanian national parks also display detailed weather forecasts.
Pick your season
The months of December-April have long daylight hours and warmer average temperatures. These months are recommended for walkers inexperienced in Tasmanian conditions. However, rapidly changing weather conditions can occur at any time of the year. Be aware that in the summer months, the clear skies of Tasmania and the reduced ozone above the island result in extremely high UV radiation. Walkers must be prepared for such conditions with broad-rimmed hats and sun cream. Temperature and rainfall charts are available online.