Warning for millions as wild weather sparks road safety blitz: 'Be prepared'
With parts of the state still recovering from recent flooding, and snow expected to draw thousands to the mountains, NSW Police and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) have launched high-visibility enforcement operations across key regions in the state.
Craig Moran, Executive Director of Operations Management at Transport for NSW, urged drivers to take the conditions seriously, with morning frost, fog, flood damage and an influx of vehicles expected to affect roads across the state.
"Tragically, so far this year up to midnight on Wednesday, 156 people have died on NSW roads, 14 more than this time last year," he said. "Don't rush, be patient with other drivers and stay safe."
He also warned snow-bound motorists to carry chains and be prepared for icy conditions.
"If you're heading to the snow, the roads can be slippery, so you should also be prepared to fit snow chains to your vehicle when signage indicates or where directed at chain bays," he said.
Police will also be out in force this long weekend, with double demerits in effect from 12.01am Friday to 11.59pm Monday, June 9, targeting dangerous driving, speeding and mobile phone use.
Coinciding with the long weekend is the launch of Operation Snow Safe, a four-month crackdown on anti-social and unsafe behaviour in the Snowy Mountains, which kicks off today and runs until October. "The main message is for people to be patient and be prepared," Southern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Joe Cassar said.
"Most people have to drive a considerable distance to visit the snow, so please plan regular breaks, check the weather conditions beforehand and make sure your car is roadworthy and can manage hazardous and slippery conditions.
"Drivers are urged to carry snow chains and ice scrapers... and pack blankets, food and water, with limited scope for detours on the roads leading to the snow, meaning you may be stuck in one location for a long period."
Cassar said the Snowy Mountains region would see a large contingent of officers deployed throughout the ski season — on slopes, roads and inside licensed venues across Jindabyne, Thredbo and Perisher.
"Whether it's being involved in anti-social behaviour or getting behind the wheel of a car after consuming too much alcohol, that sort of behaviour won't be tolerated," he said.
Police will also work closely with the NSW Alpine Operations Unit, Rescue Squad, SES, and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) throughout the season to assist with search and rescue operations.
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NPWS Director Southern Ranges, Mark Peacock, said everyone venturing into alpine areas should take basic safety precautions, especially hikers and backcountry skiers.
"NSW NPWS encourages adventurers — new or experienced — to plan your trip in advance, check the weather, carry a personal locator beacon (PLB), and know where shelter can be found at all times," he said. "It is also much safer to travel in a group rather than alone."
Visitors are strongly encouraged to complete a Trip Intention Form, which can be shared with emergency contacts and used by rescue teams if needed. "It only takes a few minutes, but it could save your life," Mr Peacock said.
South-east #Australia will experience a wintry blast this weekend as a cold front moves over the region. So, what is a cold front? Watch to learn more. Latest: https://t.co/4W35o8iFmh pic.twitter.com/ZCqa69ogaa
— Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) June 5, 2025
Authorities pointed to a recent rescue as a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can change.
About 10.30am on Tuesday, June 3, emergency services were called to Seaman's Hut on the Kosciuszko Main Range after three hikers became trapped in a snowstorm while walking between Charlotte Pass and the Mount Kosciuszko summit. They were located by police and emergency services and transported back to Charlotte Pass — cold and underprepared, but thankfully uninjured.
They had not carried a PLB, were not dressed for the conditions, were low on water and had not submitted a Trip Intention Form.
Meanwhile, major flood recovery works are still underway across parts of the state, with some roads remaining closed or damaged. Major roads around the Hunter, Mid-North Coast and North Coast were badly damaged during the recent floods, including the Oxley Highway, which remains closed west of Mount Seaview, due to a landslide, Moran said.
In and around Sydney, heavy traffic is expected on key routes from Friday. For up-to-date information on travel conditions, motorists are encouraged to visit LiveTraffic.com.
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