Southern Downs to see warmer change in overnight, daytime temperatures this winter

The chance of snowfall still lingers across parts of Southern Queensland despite a warmer change in overnight and daytime temperatures.

The hope for a snowy winter on the Granite Belt hasn’t been lost despite overnight and daytime temperatures predicted to be warmer than average.

While there have been some initial reports of the possibility the region could see snowflakes, Bureau of Meteorology climatologist Caitlin Minney said there could be less frosty mornings this winter.

“The long range forecast between June and August is showing it’s very likely that minimum temperatures across the Southern Downs will be above average,” she said.

“It doesn’t mean that all overnight temperatures will be above average.”

Ms Minney said Stanthorpe reached subzero temperatures on Thursday morning, with June morning temperatures normally sitting around 2.7C, now reaching around 11C.

The Southern Downs and Granite Belt are likely to see warmer than average daytime and overnight temperatures this winter. Photo: WillyWeather

The region hasn’t seen a shockingly low morning since July 11, 2023, which recorded negative 5C in Stanthorpe.

Tourism operators have also noticed a change in the usual frosty temperatures over the past three years.

Country Style Holiday Park co-owner Ben Beadel said he’s noticed the past few winters have felt warmer, noticing a little less frost this time of year than usual.

In mid-July last year Mr Beadel captured what appeared to be snow flurry’s falling over the tourist park.

“I really hope it does snow this year, we’ve already got bookings through the roof,” he said.

Stanthorpe Holiday Park was able to record the moment a flurry of snow fell in the Granite Belt in July 2024. (Photo: Stanthorpe Holiday Park/ Facebook)

In less than a month the popular biennial Snowflakes in Stanthorpe festival will kick off, with the holiday park already at near capacity during the event.

Mr Beadel said they started receiving bookings for accommodation last year and are now down to a few unpowered sites available.

“We used to be a last resort for people but now we’re seeing a huge increase in bookings and we’re becoming a first option,” he said.

In town, accommodation for the festival is also selling out, with Stanthorpe Vines Motel and Cottages owner Shiv Kumar booked out completely for the event.

“We’re completely booked out for it, we had a tour group book out the entire motel for the festival,” he said.

Stanthorpe’s Snowflakes in July will be held at the Showgrounds from July 4-6.