Temperatures in Canberra are likely to be well below average for the upcoming Easter long weekend, with rain forecast across much of the nation and wintry weather and snow possible in alpine regions.

The Bureau of Meteorology forecast for Canberra sees maximums dropping from the low 20s on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, to 19 degrees on Saturday, 15 on Sunday, and 16 on Monday.

Bureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist, Sarah Scully, said that whilst conditions could still change, early forecasts would allow Australians to start planning their Easter weekend. 

“Maximum temperatures are likely to be well below average for the Easter long weekend with snowfall possible in alpine areas on Saturday night and Sunday,” Ms Scully said.  

“Showers and thunderstorms are forecast across eastern and southern NSW [and the ACT] on Friday, with the potential for severe storms along the east coast and adjacent mountain ranges, bringing damaging winds, large hail and heavy rain.

“Showers are forecast in the south [of NSW] on Saturday, contracting to the ranges on Sunday, before becoming dry throughout on Monday. Hazardous surf conditions are forecast to develop on the south and central coast during Sunday, extending to the north coast on Monday.”

A series of cold fronts will see cold, wet and windy conditions across the southern states over the long weekend, including Canberra, Melbourne and Hobart. Temperatures will be well below average on Sunday, with a chance of snow around the eastern ranges.

There is also potential for increased swell developing Sunday into Monday.

It is expected to be wet, cold and windy for South Australia on Friday and Saturday, with sunny breaks developing on Sunday and Monday. Temperatures will remain well-below average over the long weekend for the area.

Ms Scully said there is a risk of severe thunderstorms for south-east Queensland for the start of the Easter long weekend on Friday.

“Severe thunderstorms are possible for south-east Queensland on Good Friday, before settling down to drier conditions for much of the state from Saturday. Temperatures will be above average on Friday, contracting to the east from Saturday.”

“Perth will see mostly dry conditions over the Easter long weekend, with a risk of showers and isolated storms elsewhere. Temperatures will be well below maximum averages.”

The Bureau advises it’s important to remember that weather conditions can change rapidly. Keep up to date with the latest weather warnings and forecasts throughout the holiday period on the Bureau’s website www.bom.gov.au or via the BOM weather app.