Australia is bracing for a cold weekend and into next week as freezing air from Antarctica sweeps across the country, causing temperatures to drop significantly. The arrival of a strong high-pressure system in the Tasman Sea will prolong the cold snap in the southeast. Gale-force winds and snow are expected in various regions, with warnings of dangerous waves along the coasts. The cold conditions will affect states like Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania, prompting meteorologists to advise on potential snowfall and frosty weather. Sydney, among other cities, will experience a significant temperature decrease following the recent rainy spells, with the Antarctic air set to bring icy winds and freezing temperatures to multiple parts of the country.