Barrington Tops was dusted with snow overnight as temperatures dipped to a frosty 1 degree, with the wind-chill making it feel more like -2 in the mountains.

The snow fall is at least the third reported fall of the season in the Barrington area. 

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Katarina Kovacevic said cold air masses generally created the conditions for snow. 

Several of those had moved across the northern part of the state but the patterns did not appear highly unusual given snow in NSW was typically fairly volatile.

“It’s been a pretty good snow season, even in the south,” Ms Kovacevic said.

The frosty start to winter also extended to Paterson, where the 0 degree night on June 30 became the coldest evening since 1971. 

With wind speeds of up to 75 kms per hour, snow chasers are warned of hazardous conditions and slippery roads. Two-wheel drives should avoid the tops for safety reasons.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Upper Hunter area manager Catherine Watt said while Barrington Tops Forest Road (Gloucester to Scone) was open, visitors were advised to exercise extreme care when driving in those conditions.

“The predicted weather conditions will make roads extremely slippery,” Ms Watt said.

“If strong winds eventuate, there is also potential for trees and branches to fall, posing a direct risk to visitors, and possibly blocking access into and out of the area.

“Conditions will be monitored and road closures may be put in place to ensure the safety of all users if required due to slippery, icy conditions.”

Rain is expected in the Barrington Tops on Wednesday before easing, while the wider Hunter can expect rain later in the week before a ridge stabilises weather patterns. 

The July snowfall blanketed Tasmanian devil breeding facility Devil Ark, giving the Tassie devils a taste of home in the heart of the Hunter.

Send your snow pics to online.media@theherald.com.au.