‘Blizzard conditions’: Millions brace for icy chill as cold front settles for King’s Birthday weekend

A cold front is bringing icy conditions and severe weather to much of Australia, resulting in thunderstorms, rain, hail, and snow over the long weekend. The Bureau of Meteorology warns of damaging winds up to 100km/h, particularly affecting Victoria, Tasmania, and southern NSW, with snow expected in alpine areas ahead of the ski season. As temperatures drop, residents in major cities like Canberra and Melbourne will face chilly highs of 13C and 14C, while Brisbane enjoys a milder 23C.