Mount Hotham Rescue: Vehicles Trapped in Heavy Snow

Heavy Snowfall Traps Vehicles at Mount Hotham

The opening weekend of the ski season at Mount Hotham took an unexpected turn as emergency services launched a significant rescue operation. Several vehicles became stuck in heavy snow on Saturday night, prompting a coordinated effort by Victoria Police and State Emergency Service (SES) teams from nearby areas.

The incident occurred on the Blue Rag Range Track near Dargo High Plains Road, where more than 50 centimetres of snow had fallen over the weekend. As of Sunday afternoon, 13 people had been successfully rescued, with efforts continuing to reach others who might still be stranded. Emergency services used snowmobiles to access those trapped on the mountain.

One man in his 40s required treatment for minor injuries after his vehicle rolled in the challenging conditions. The heavy snowfall, while ideal for skiing, created hazardous driving conditions that caught some visitors off guard.

In response to the situation, authorities closed the Dargo High Plains Road to traffic due to the extreme weather conditions. The road is not expected to reopen until after the King's Birthday long weekend. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for alpine conditions and heeding weather warnings.

Mount Hotham, like many Australian ski resorts, requires vehicles to carry snow chains during the winter season. Last year, nearly 1,500 vehicles were turned back at Mount Hotham for failing to comply with this requirement. Police have announced increased checks on key routes to alpine resorts this season, including Mount Hotham, Mt Buller, Falls Creek, Mt Baw Baw, Lake Mountain, and Mt Stirling. Skiers and riders are urged to ensure their vehicles are properly equipped and to stay informed about current weather and road conditions before travelling to ski resorts.