Unusual heavy snow blankets eastern Australia

An unusual snowstorm hit New England, northern New South Wales (NSW), while other parts of the state experienced heavy rain and severe flooding.

The New England highlands in northern NSW saw an unusual snowstorm over the weekend.

Some towns in the region, such as Armidale and Guyra, recorded 20-40 cm of snow, stranding hundreds of cars and closing numerous roads. NSW officials had warned of up to 50 cm of snow, the heaviest in 20 years.

A bus travels through heavy snow in New England, Australia. Photo: ABC News

A bus travels through heavy snow in New England, Australia. Photo: ABC News

In Uralla, many people stranded by the snowstorm sought refuge in pubs. "We've got the fire going and lots of candles burning. There might be a fair bit of alcohol consumed today to keep warm," one pub owner said.

New England borders Queensland to the north and is inland. The area has an average elevation of 900-1,300 m and experiences snow during the Australian winter (from June to August).

Meanwhile, other parts of NSW were hit by storms and heavy rain, with severe flooding leading to the disappearance of a woman. Over 27,000 homes across the state lost power due to heavy rain, strong winds, and thick snow. State officials issued dozens of flood warnings, including some in New England.

Flooding in Tamworth, New England. Photo: ABC News

Flooding in Tamworth, New England. Photo: ABC News

State Emergency Service (SES) official Ian Robinson said the mid-north coast, particularly Kempsey, was ravaged by heavy rain and strong winds, with many homes losing their roofs, including part of the roof of Kempsey High School.

81-year-old Suzanne Siossian said she narrowly escaped before her roof was blown off and her walls collapsed during the storm.

"I've lived here all my life and I've never seen weather like it before, even though we've had some pretty wild storms over the years," said neighbor Amelia Coy, who witnessed Siossian's house collapse.

The SES advised residents of some areas in New England to prepare for evacuation, as floodwaters from the Peel and Namoi rivers in Tamworth and Manilla were expected to rise.