Overland Track Weather - 18th to 21st of May | Reprieve From a Wet May
Overland Track Forecast: Pelion Hut Area
Disclaimer & Safety Waiver Important: Read Before Using These Forecasts.
These weather outlooks are provided by an amateur enthusiast with a high level of interest in meteorology and extensive on-track experience as a hiking guide. I am not a qualified or professional meteorologist, and these forecasts are not official predictions.
They are interpretive insights based on multiple weather models, personal observations, and knowledge of local microclimates on the Overland Track. Weather in Tasmania's mountains is highly variable and can change rapidly—forecasts can be wrong, and conditions on the ground may differ significantly.
By reading or using this information, you acknowledge and agree that
All hiking and outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including exposure to severe weather, hypothermia, slips on wet/icy terrain, wind-related hazards, dehydration, and other dangers.
You participate entirely at your own risk.
This content is for informational and planning purposes only—it does not constitute professional weather advice, safety guarantees, or liability for any decisions you make.
You must independently verify conditions with official sources (e.g., Bureau of Meteorology at bom.gov.au, Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service alerts, and local rangers).
Always carry appropriate gear, inform others of your plans, and be prepared to turn back or seek shelter if conditions deteriorate. In emergencies, call 000.
No warranty is made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information. Use at your own discretion.
Overview (4-Day Summary):
Well, its been a wet start to May for the Overland Track, Mount Read weather station has recorded 197.6mm rain so far this month, 90mm of which fell on the 8th of May. This coming week is looking much drier, with only 1mm forecast rain for the next 4 days - something of a treat this time of year! Temperatures are reasonable too, 8-12 °C during most days and between 2-4°C overnight. The caveat is a high likely hood of low cloud throughout the week. Its one of those forecasts that forces you to look within if you can’t look out! Enjoy the week folks.
Daily Breakdown:
Day 1: Monday 18th of May 2026
Temperature: Highs of 11-12°C. Overnight lows of 3-4°C.
Wind: Light northerlies.
Precipitation: None forecast
Weather Systems: Slight low pressure
Cloud Cover: Low during the morning and early afternoon. Chance of clearing in the afternoon.
Day 2: Tuesday 19th of May 2026
Temperature: Highs of 8°C. Overnight lows of 3-4°C.
Wind: Light north westerlies.
Precipitation: 0.2mm-1mm. Falling between 10am and 1pm
Weather Systems: Slight low pressure
Cloud Cover: Low cloud all day.
Day 3: Wednesday 20th of May 2026
Temperature: Highs of 6-8°C. Overnight lows of 2°C.
Wind: Building south westerlies, bringing cold air up from the south.
Morning: SW at 6-8km/h.
Afternoon: SW at 14-25km/h.
Precipitation: 1mm - Likely mist/mizzle in the afternoon.
Weather Systems: Pressure rising through the day.
Cloud Cover: Low cloud all day.
Day 4: Thursday 21st of May 2026
Temperature: Highs of 8°C. Overnight lows of 3-4°C.
Wind: Light westerlies.
Precipitation: None forecast.
Weather Systems: High pressure throughout day.
Cloud Cover: Low cloud in the morning, burning off in the afternoon, revealing high cloud.
Advice from a Guide:
You’ll wake up slicked with condensation this week, if you’re in tents. Bring a chux cloth to wipe down the inside of you’re tent when you wake up. If planning to sleep in tents all week, consider a synthetic sleeping bag.
The creeks will be brimming with water, check your map for crossings to reduce your carried water weight.
As far as summits go this week - Monday afternoon and Thursday look to be the best opportunities. Low cloud adds risk and prevents helicopter rescue.
The more humid (cloudy) mornings will likely feel quiet cold. Humid air conducts heat away from your body more effectively than dry air. Don’t be afraid to start in layers. ‘Be bold - start cold’ doesn’t always make for enjoyable walking.
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