Does it Snow in Melbourne?
Have you ever wondered if it snows in Melbourne?
Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria in Australia, is renowned for its diverse climate and ever-changing weather patterns.
Weather can switch quickly from bright and sunny to cloudy, rainy, or windy, sometimes within the same day.
While Australia is generally associated with warm weather and sandy beaches, many people wonder if Melbourne, in the southern part of the country, experiences snowfall.
This article will explore the intriguing question, “Does it snow in Melbourne?” and shed light on the city’s unique climate.
So, let’s dive in and discover the fascinating world of Melbourne’s weather.
Does it Snow in Melbourne?
While the heart of Melbourne, with its vibrant cityscape and bustling laneways, rarely dons a blanket of white, it doesn’t mean that snow is entirely off the cards.
The occurrence of snowfall in the city is quite an uncommon occurrence, making it a cherished memory when the rare event does take place.
For those seeking to delight in snowy landscapes, the Victorian High Country is an ideal destination, as it consistently enjoys significant snowfall during the winter months.
These regions, nestled high above sea level, starkly contrast Melbourne’s typically mild winters.
Significant snowfall is not just a fleeting moment but a recurring winter feature.
During the chilly months, the High Country transforms into a snowy paradise, turning into Australia’s winter playground.
Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing enthusiasts flock here, leaving behind Melbourne’s urban buzz for powdery slopes and roaring fires.
Climate of Melbourne
Delving deeper into the climate of Melbourne, it’s interesting to note the distinct features that contribute to its particular weather patterns.
Melbourne boasts an oceanic climate, defined by its pleasantly warm to sometimes hot summers and cooler, often mild winters.
This temperate nature results in a typically neither hot nor cold climate.
Being positioned close to the Southern Ocean plays a significant role in shaping Melbourne’s weather.
This proximity influences the temperature, often leading to cooler breezes in the summer and limiting the extremities of winter cold.
Consequently, Melbourne’s climate is considerably mild compared to many other Australian cities.
Another geographical factor that impacts Melbourne’s climate is the Great Dividing Range.
This mountain range affects rainfall distribution, resulting in the city’s southern suburbs receiving more precipitation than the north.
As a result, Melbourne experiences considerable rainfall throughout the year, though it’s more prominent in the cooler months.
The mountains’ ‘rain shadow’ effect contributes to the city’s fluctuating weather patterns by reducing leeward rainfall.
Melbourne’s weather is famously changeable, often said to present “four seasons in one day”, adding an element of unpredictability and charm to the city’s climate.
Understanding Melbourne’s climate requires acknowledging its moderate maritime nature and unique geographic influences.
Weather in Melbourne
In the summer months, from December to February, temperatures in Melbourne can be pretty hot, typically ranging from 14 – 25.3°C (57.2 – 77.5°F).
The warmest months in Melbourne are typically January and February, during which the temperatures occasionally surpass the 30°C (86°F) mark.
The city’s weather can shift dramatically, with heatwaves often followed by calm winds and thunderstorms.
Melbourne’s summer is known for long, warm days, with daylight stretching until about 8.30 pm, allowing plenty of outdoor activities.
Autumn, from March to May, graces Melbourne with picturesque foliage as leaves on the trees change colour.
The weather cools from the summer’s heat, with average temperatures fluctuating between 10.9 – 20.3°C (51.6 – 68.5°F).
It’s also a wetter season, with April typically being the city’s wettest month.
Winter in Melbourne, spanning June through August, can be pretty chilly, with temperatures often hovering between 6.5 and 14.2 degrees Celsius (43.7 to 57.6 degrees Fahrenheit).
It’s a damp season, with regular rainfall and the occasional hail storm. Despite being cold, snowfall in the city itself is extremely rare.
In the northeastern region of Victoria, fondly referred to as the High Country, snow is expected.
The climate often exhibits cold, overcast conditions, with frosts frequently accompanying the night-time. Notably, this period rarely sees heavy rainfall.
From September to November, spring offers a respite from the winter cold. Temperatures climb from 9.6 – 19.6°C (49.3 – 67.3°F).
The city bursts into bloom with flowers, and occasional showers are balanced with sunny days, leading into the warmer summer season.
Winter Snow Activities in Melbourne
While Melbourne may not offer consistent snowfall, it compensates with an array of exciting winter activities.
During winter, the city transforms into a lively hub of events and festivals.
Puffing Billy’s Train of Lights
Setting off from Lakeside Station at 6 pm every day, the Train of Lights sets out on a round trip of two and a half hours, journeying along the historic narrow-gauge track towards Gembrook.
Resolution X, renowned for their work on White Night and Melbourne Fashion Festival, collaborates on this project.
This dazzling spectacle illuminates the Gembrook landscape with twinkling lights, mesmerising patterns, and vibrant hues.
Winter Night Market
The Winter Night Market, an unmissable winter spectacle in Melbourne, makes a grand comeback at the Queen Victoria Market.
The 13-week extravaganza runs every Wednesday night from 7 June to 30 August 2023.
The Winter Night Market unites Melbourne’s top food vendors, brewers, artisans, and entertainers for a unique winter experience.
Book a Private Igloo
Nestle comfortably under a starry canopy of glimmering fairy lights alongside your loved ones in your personal winter paradise!
Starting at $80 per person, experience a three-course sharing menu and drinks on arrival.
Visit Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens
Expect to be enchanted by an LED sphere, musical trees, a fire garden, and illuminating sculptures amid dynamic installations.
Explore the new two-kilometre trail around the lake and marvel at the beauty of nature under the night sky.
Bundle up and satisfy your cravings with mouth-watering options from the food trucks and bars in the Lightscape Welcome Zone or dotted along the trail.
Ice Skating Experience at O’Brien Icehouse Melbourne
O’Brien Icehouse has established a lively and secure setting where individuals of every age and skill level can delight in ice skating.
With the city’s sole Olympic-sized dual-pad ice rinks, a day of enjoyment is guaranteed regardless of your skating prowess.
The Icehouse also offers skate rentals in all sizes, helmets, and other necessary safety gear.
Historical Snowfall Events in Melbourne
Although rare, Melbourne has had a handful of significant snow events.
The most notable snowfall in Melbourne’s history occurred in July 1986, when the city received around 2 inches of snow.
This memorable event saw children and adults revelling in the wintry wonder, turning parks into impromptu snowfields.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the most recent notable occurrence happened on the 10th and 11th of August when extensive snowfall reached as low as 200 metres in the Melbourne region.
On 4th August 2020, a cold front led to snowfall reaching levels as low as 150 meters above sea level around noon.
Unusual light snow dusted Melbourne’s northwestern suburbs like Craigieburn, Sunbury, and Wallan after many years.
Snow was also observed on the elevated levels of Melbourne.
Where to See Snow in Melbourne?
Although Melbourne itself may not receive significant snowfall, there are several snow destinations within a few hours’ drive from the city.
The surrounding highlands and Alpine regions offer visitors and locals the chance to enjoy a winter wonderland, starkly contrasting to Melbourne’s typical climate.
📍Mount Donna Buang
During winter, one of the closest snow to Melbourne is typically found atop Mt Donna Buang, located near Warburton and a mere 70 km east of Melbourne.
The summit’s lookout tower, standing at 1245 metres, offers panoramic views of Melbourne and surrounding landmarks.
Besides the stunning view, it’s a favoured spot for picnics and the commencement of mountain walks.
To reach Mt Donna Buang, follow the Warburton Highway to Warburton.
Proceed past the station, IGA, the church, over a bridge, then turn left at the Warburton Motel sign onto C507.
To bypass Yuonga Rd on the left within 100m and remain on Donna Buang Road.
There’s no facility for hiring snow chains in Warburton or on the mountain – generally, they aren’t required once the road is graded.
However, mountain conditions can swiftly alter. If you possess chains, it’s wise to carry them along.
If you don’t, check the local conditions before embarking on your trip and adjust your driving to the prevailing conditions.
📍Lake Mountain
Lake Mountain is the snow near Melbourne, a mere 2-hour drive from the CBD. This gem, perfect for a weekend getaway with the family, offers the nearest snow to Melbourne.
Your journey to Lake Mountain is a rewarding adventure in itself.
Expect your senses to be captivated by some of Victoria’s most breathtaking landscapes and sought-after destinations along the way.
Among these highlights is the Black Spur Drive, an impressive road on the Maroondah Highway that serves as a scenic connector between Healesville and Narbethong.
It’s renowned for its awe-inspiring valley vistas and majestic mountain ash trees, beautifully framing your winding ascent up the hill.
Over 35 kilometres of meticulously marked and groomed trails, Lake Mountain offers some of the finest cross-country skiing in Australia, ideal for intermediate skiers.
The nearest lodging can be found in Marysville, just a 25-30 minute drive from Lake Mountain.
During the declared winter season, Lake Mountain doesn’t provide on-site accommodation, as it’s intended solely for day visitors.
In the winter season, the entry gate is locked promptly at 5 p.m. each day; hence, guests are advised to set off for Marysville by 4:30 p.m. to evade the 5 p.m. shutdown.
📍Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort
Located 120 km east of Melbourne and 50 km north of the Latrobe Valley, Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort is easily accessible.
It offers 35 hectares of groomed snow terrain, seven ski lifts, fun-filled snow play areas, tobogganing spaces, and magic carpets.
Boasting 10 km of cross-country ski trails, there’s unlimited terrain amongst the snowgums waiting to be explored.
When the snow melts, Mt Baw Baw transforms, revealing a riot of vibrant wildflowers and providing sanctuary to several critically endangered animals.
The village walking trails at Mt Baw Baw interconnect with an expansive network within the Baw Baw National Park and the Great Alpine Walking Trail.
Baw Baw’s DH1 downhill track and cross-country trails provide a challenging terrain for seasoned mountain biking enthusiasts.
📍Mount Buller
With over 300 hectares of skiable terrain, Mt Buller offers diverse slopes suitable for all skill levels.
From the spacious beginners’ slopes like Bourke St and Burnt Hut Spur to challenging black runs like Chamois, variety is abundant.
Sporting Victoria’s most extensive lift network, Mt Buller boasts 20 lifts, including thirteen chairlifts, two T-bars, a pair of rope tows, and three magic carpets.
A skilled snow grooming team diligently maintains the resort’s three Terrain Parks, each tailored for different skill levels.
For those seeking winter merriment, two toboggan parks at Mt Buller are fitted with their own snowmaking machines, ensuring winter-long fun for the kids.
Situated at the mountain’s heart, the Mt Buller Village promises ski-in and ski-out accommodation, along with many bars and restaurants.
Whether it’s accommodation to suit every budget, over 30 food and drink outlets offering everything from fast bites to gourmet feasting or varied nightlife, choices abound.
Not to forget, Mt Buller houses Breathtaker on High Alpine Spa Retreat, Australia’s loftiest day spa, and offers a range of off-piste activities like cinema, shopping, and rock climbing.
📍Mount Stirling
Mt Stirling stands out as the only alpine resort in Victoria, boasting a largely untouched, pure alpine peak, thus providing visitors with an easily reachable ‘semi-wilderness’ adventure.
Its richness and variety in environmental aspects, coupled with its convenient distance from Melbourne (230 km), grants Mt Stirling a distinct charm within the Australian Alps.
At 1749 metres, Mt Stirling’s summit provides a sweeping 360-degree view of the encircling mountain ranges.
Its diverse landscape of forests, woodlands, and meadows offers year-round beauty in both summer and winter seasons.
📍Mount Hotham
You’ll find Hotham Alpine Resort nestled amidst the Victorian Alps of the Great Dividing Range and a mere 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne’s heart.
Renowned for its spectacular vistas, personal airport, and an impressive 320 hectares of ski terrain, it caters to all levels, from novices to seasoned skiers.
Regarded as Australia’s ‘Powder Capital’, Hotham holds the unique distinction in the Southern Hemisphere of having its village situated atop the mountain.
From any village location, breathtaking views ski-in and ski-out opportunities are guaranteed.
Whether you’re seeking 13 chair lifts, three terrain parks, or 35km of cross-country skiing, Hotham has covered it.
Family-friendly activities such as tobogganing, dog sled tours, and snowmobile rides are also available.
Not to mention a plethora of restaurants and bars! So, your off-the-slopes options will leave you spoiled for choice.
📍Falls Creek
Falls Creek, Victoria’s most expansive alpine ski resort. Encompassing over 450 hectares of skier-friendly terrain and more than 90 trails, it offers perfect progression for every skill level.
From conquering your first descent down Wombat’s Ramble, Australia’s longest green run, to tackling the Summit’s sharp peaks, Falls Creek has something for everyone.
In the winter season, the entire village is ski-in, ski-out.
This means straight from your door; you can slide to the lifts and return directly from your top runs, eliminating the hassle of lugging your gear back to your accommodation.
Falls Creek, with its attractive village, naturally provides numerous après options.
Numerous restaurants and cafes near the resort offer meals and are easily accessible from on-mountain accommodations.
What should I wear in Melbourne in Winter?
Dressing for winter in Melbourne requires thoughtful planning, given the city’s well-known reputation for experiencing ‘four seasons in one day’.
June, July, and August, which constitute winter in Melbourne, can be pretty cold, and the city often experiences bouts of rain and chilling winds.
Start with layering to cater to the fluctuating temperatures.
Ideally, Your outfit should include a base layer of thermal wear, which helps retain body heat.
Over this, opt for a middle layer, such as a light sweater or a long-sleeve top, to provide extra insulation.
Outerwear is critical for Melbourne’s winter.
A waterproof or water-resistant jacket is advisable as showers can be quite frequent during this season.
If the day is particularly cold, a good quality coat or down jacket will be your best friend.
Remember, the outermost layer protects you from the elements, be it wind, rain or occasionally, hail.
You’ll also need a pair of warm, comfortable trousers or jeans.
Denim is popular, but thermal leggings can be a lifesaver on colder days.
Footwear should be warm and waterproof if possible.
Melbourne’s streets can become quite wet, so sturdy boots with a good grip will help you navigate the city safely.
Accessories can make a significant difference in comfort levels during winter.
A scarf, gloves, and a beanie hat can add extra warmth and are easy to remove if the day warms up.
Don’t forget a sturdy umbrella for those inevitable winter showers.
Remember, Melbourne’s winter temperatures can vary significantly within a single day, so having layers that you can add or remove is the key to staying comfortable.
The weather may be cold, but with the right wardrobe choices, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything Melbourne offers during winter.
Does it Snow in Melbourne FAQs
Is Melbourne or Hobart colder?
On average, Hobart is colder than Melbourne.
The island city of Hobart, being further south, generally experiences cooler temperatures throughout the year than Melbourne.
Does it snow in the Yarra Valley?
Snowfall in the Yarra Valley is very rare, given its lower elevation.
However, there may be light snow or frost in some exceptionally cold weather events.
You would typically need to head to the nearby Victorian Alps for reliable snowfall.
Does it snow in Mount Dandenong?
Yes, it does snow in Mount Dandenong, but not frequently.
Given its higher altitude than Melbourne’s city centre, it occasionally receives light snowfall during the coldest months of the year, particularly when a strong cold front comes through.
However, these events are not typical, and the snow tends not to persist for long.
Conclusion: Does it snow in Melbourne?
In conclusion, snowfall in Melbourne is rare due to its coastal plain location and the moderating influence of the surrounding oceans.
While the city experiences cold winters, heavy snowfalls are infrequent.
However, Melburnians and visitors can still enjoy winter activities through artificial snow experiences and by venturing to nearby snow destinations.
So, if you’re in Melbourne during the winter season, embrace the city’s unique climate and explore the various options available to enjoy a touch of winter wonder.
