Wind in the wilderness a real threat to unprepared hikers

Winds of change whip up challenging conditions for bushwalkers in Tasmania Mon 10 Aug 2026 at 5:17am Urshla Connor knows from personal and professional experience that being prepared for changing winds and weather can be the difference between a beautiful bushwalk and a life-threatening situation in Tasmania. In her role as a meteorologist with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), she regularly updates emergency services and the media on changing alpine conditions that often catch hikers unawares. While she generates warnings and forecasts for the bureau's website and the BOM Weather app, Ms Connor always double-checks the latest information before starting a trek. "Being a meteorologist, I probably check the weather more than most people," she said. "I definitely plan my walks around the forecast. But on a multi-day walk in Tasmania, it's unrealistic to expect perfect weather every day." Ms Connor said her most memorable experience of being caught in bad weather was on the Three Capes Track. "We had two beautiful blue-sky days, but one day of cloud so thick we couldn't see 20 metres ahead, and winds so strong it felt like we'd be blown off Cape Pillar," she said. "It reinforced that Tasmanian weather can be unforgiving. You have to carry the gear for the weather you're likely to get, not the weather you're hoping for." Ms Connor cautioned that conditions can change extremely quickly in Tasmania and can be significantly different whether you're near the coast or up high on a mountain. "Before you head out, it is important to check both the current observations and the forecast for the area you're planning to visit," she said. "Search for your destination on the BOM Weather app or the bureau's website to compare the latest conditions with what's expected over the course of your walk, including temperature, wind and rainfall. "Also keep an eye out for any Bushwalkers Weather Alerts, Severe Weather Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings affecting your area." Bushwalkers should be aware that while air temperature generally decreases gradually with elevation, wind is often what makes exposed alpine areas significantly harsher. "During winter, Tasmania is regularly affected by strong cold fronts from the Southern Ocean, bringing rapidly changing weather," Ms Connor said. "As you gain elevation during these conditions, temperatures decrease, winds strengthen, and precipitation can become more intense." She said most hikes begin in relatively sheltered locations, but "once you reach exposed ridgelines or summits, you're suddenly exposed to much stronger winds". "Strong winds increase the rate at which your body loses heat — a phenomenon known as 'wind chill'," she said. "Even when the air temperature isn't especially low, wind chill can increase the risk of cold stress and hypothermia, particularly in exposed alpine and coastal areas." As winter sets in, many of Tasmania's peaks also receive snowfall. Combined with strong winds, snow can reduce visibility, make tracks slippery and create freezing conditions that increase the risk of exposure. "You can use the forecast maps to see how temperatures and wind speeds are expected to change along your route," Ms Connor said. "Winds can significantly increase wind chill, so it's important to consider more than just the forecast temperature. "That's why the bureau also provides an 'apparent' or 'feels like' temperature in its forecasts. For example, an air temperature of 6 degrees Celsius on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington can feel closer to -4C on a windy day." Rescue statistics show that interstate visitors are far from the only ones being caught out by Tasmania's weather, with only 27 per cent of rescue operations involving mainland tourists. In recent years, the rise of social media has inspired more people to explore Tasmania's wilderness, but not everyone is prepared for how quickly conditions can change. "I've also learnt that not everyone knows what a proper rain jacket looks like," Ms Connor said. "I've had friends turn up in fashionable spray jackets that look great, but aren't designed for hours of rain and strong winds. "Now, if I'm walking with people who are new to Tasmanian bushwalking, I usually throw a couple of spare waterproof jackets and some extra gear in my pack, just in case." The bureau continues to work closely with the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, and Tasmania Police Search and Rescue, to improve the weather information and warnings available to the community. While it can sometimes be difficult to get phone coverage in remote areas, bushwalkers should check for forecasts and warnings as often as possible on the bureau's website or the BOM Weather app. "These days, it's easier than ever to check the forecast before you head out," Ms Connor said. "I encourage everyone to read and understand the forecasts and warnings, and make sure they have the right clothing and equipment for the conditions. "The weather is part of the adventure, but it shouldn't be the thing that catches you out. Good preparation means you can enjoy everything Tasmania has to offer safely."