Australians will face contrasting weather conditions on Christmas Day, with forecasters warning of heavy rainfall across the eastern states and soaring temperatures in Western Australia. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued updates outlining differing weather patterns that will affect family gatherings and travel plans across the country.
Cool, windy and showery conditions are forecast for south-east #Australia has we head into #ChristmasDay. A #SevereWeatherWarning for #DamagingWinds is current for parts of #Tas.
Latest: https://t.co/4W35o8i7wJ pic.twitter.com/duTtPjw8tO
— Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) December 24, 2025
Rain and Thunderstorms for the East
Widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected across Queensland, New South Wales, and parts of Victoria. The BOM predicts that coastal and inland regions will receive significant rainfall as humid air moves south from the tropics. Sydney may record between 10 and 25 millimetres of rain during the day, while northern NSW could see heavier totals exceeding 50 millimetres in isolated locations.
Queensland’s southeast may experience afternoon storms with brief heavy downpours and gusty winds. Brisbane is forecast to reach a maximum temperature of around 31 degrees before storms form in the late afternoon. The BOM has advised residents to monitor local warnings due to the risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas.
Melbourne, meanwhile, will experience milder conditions with temperatures around 24 degrees and possible showers in the evening. The pattern marks a shift from last week’s dry heat, as a low-pressure system continues to influence the southern coast.
Widespread Rainfall & Storms Forecast
Wet Christmas for Families in NSW and Queensland
Rain will shape outdoor celebrations across the eastern states. The BOM reports increased cloud cover developing during the morning, leading to reduced temperatures compared with earlier in the week. Coastal winds will remain moderate, increasing during the day as the system deepens over the Tasman Sea.
Sydney’s beaches are expected to remain busy despite the forecast, but surf conditions may become hazardous during the afternoon. Surf Life Saving NSW has issued an advisory for beachgoers, urging caution in strong rip currents and shifting tides. Local authorities have requested travellers to stay aware of wet roads and transport delays, especially along major highways linking regional centres.
National Weather Forecast December 24 2025: Christmas Day forecast for Australia
Video current: 1pm AEDT, Wednesday 24 December 2025.
For the latest forecasts and warnings go to our website https://t.co/4W35o8iFmh or the BOM Weather app. pic.twitter.com/ESHhVuCa57
— Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) December 24, 2025
Contrast Across the Country
While the east deals with rain, Western Australia will experience extreme heat under clear skies. Perth will face maximum temperatures nearing 43 degrees on Christmas Day, continuing a heatwave that has affected the region for several days. The BOM said temperatures in parts of the Pilbara and Gascoyne could climb above 46 degrees, as hot desert air flows from the interior.
People in affected regions have been urged to remain indoors during peak heat periods. The Department of Health has reminded residents to stay hydrated and check on older neighbours and young children. Emergency services remain on alert for potential bushfire outbreaks, as hot winds may push temperatures even higher inland.
Also Read: Christmas Eve Trading Hours: Australia’s Last Chance for Holiday Gifts
Heatwave Extends Across Western Australia
The BOM said the persistent heat is linked to a blocking high-pressure system sitting over central Australia. The system prevents cooler air from reaching the west coast, allowing heat to build across the state. Perth Airport recorded overnight minimums above 28 degrees earlier this week, marking one of the city’s warmest December nights on record.
Kalgoorlie, Geraldton, and Carnarvon will also experience extreme temperatures. Fire authorities have imposed total fire bans across several shires due to the elevated fire danger. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has deployed additional crews in high-risk zones and urged regional communities to review their emergency plans ahead of the holiday period.
Cooler Conditions for Southern Regions
South Australia, Tasmania, and southern Victoria will enjoy relatively mild Christmas conditions. Adelaide’s forecast maximum sits at 27 degrees with partly cloudy skies. Hobart will reach around 23 degrees with fresh coastal breezes. The BOM expects mostly dry weather across these areas, offering ideal conditions for outdoor gatherings and events.
In Canberra, cloud cover will keep daytime temperatures near 28 degrees. Light showers may develop in the afternoon as moisture from the east interacts with cooler southern air. Local emergency services have confirmed no significant weather warnings for the ACT region as of Wednesday morning.
Cool, windy and showery conditions are forecast for south-east #Australia has we head into #ChristmasDay. A #SevereWeatherWarning for #DamagingWinds is current for parts of #Tas.
Latest: https://t.co/4W35o8i7wJ pic.twitter.com/duTtPjw8tO
— Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) December 24, 2025
Outlook Ahead
The BOM expects unsettled conditions to continue into the Boxing Day weekend. Eastern storms may persist through Sunday, while temperatures across the west remain elevated until early next week. The national forecast indicates a gradual return to stable conditions by Monday as inland pressure patterns shift eastward.
Meteorologists will continue to monitor tropical activity north of Queensland. Any further system development could bring heavier rainfall to coastal areas early next week. The bureau said water catchments across northern NSW and southern Queensland remain close to saturation following earlier storms, increasing the risk of localised flooding.
Travel and Safety Advice
Authorities across all states have urged travellers to plan ahead and stay informed. Roads in regional NSW and Queensland may experience delays due to wet conditions, while highways in WA could face heat-related hazards. Airlines have reported full schedules for domestic routes, and the BOM continues to issue regular aviation weather updates to ensure safe travel across the country.
The BOM stated that Australians should prepare for variable conditions this festive season. “People should stay up to date with their local forecasts and take precautions against heavy rain or extreme heat,” a spokesperson for the bureau said.
With rain in the east and scorching heat in the west, the nation faces a Christmas Day defined by sharp contrasts. Families are expected to adapt plans accordingly, whether seeking shade in Western Australia or sheltering from afternoon storms along the New South Wales coast.
