Hunter Valley Police District officers have spent the last two weekends searching for and recovering people from stranded 4WDs within the Barrington Tops.
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"Please use common sense," is their advice to people considering visiting Barrington Tops, particularly this weekend with a severe weather warning in place.
Hunter Valley Police say at this stage only a small amount of snow (2-3cm) is forecast, due to the lack of moisture in the system. However, the wind chill factor for the weekend is forecast to be -14 degrees on Saturday and -11 degrees on Sunday.
Strong winds are also predicted for The Tops.
"It is strongly recommended you weigh up the risk to go to the area, particularly with your children to see what is only forecast to be a small amount of snow," a police spokesman said.
With unpredictable conditions particularly with the winds, roads and trails may become blocked without notice. If your vehicle becomes stranded it may be days until it can be recovered.
- Hunter District Police
"With unpredictable conditions, particularly with the winds, roads and trails may become blocked without notice. If your vehicle becomes stranded it may be days until it can be recovered.
"You may be stranded without assistance with your children for several hours and depending on your location, in your vehicle overnight.
"Severe weather conditions, such as those predicted, generally do not allow the rescue helicopter to fly due to the danger to the crew and aircraft.
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"After weighing up the risk and if you do decide to go into the area we recommend you stay on the main roads such as Barrington Tops Forest Road and Tubrabucca Road.
"Many side trails can become blocked by tree falls and require a high level of 4WD skill to navigate. You will also need to have considerable recovery equipment. It is strongly recommend you do not go onto any side trails."
The police asked motorists to download the Emergency + app as it will give a GPS location even when there is no service.
"Take plenty of provisions and warm clothing and plan in advance for any possible emergency."
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