Heatwave and Thunderstorms Strike Early Summer
Australians are bracing for a turbulent start to summer as heatwave conditions combine with widespread thunderstorms. Temperatures soared across several states, with Sydney and Melbourne experiencing humid and stormy weather. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts persistent thunderstorms, with severe activity possible in some regions.
Sydney Thunderstorms Amid Scorching Temperatures
Western Sydney faced temperatures in the mid-30s on Saturday, with humidity making conditions feel even hotter. Rain and possible storms are forecast for Sydney, though earlier severe weather warnings have been cancelled. Nikolina Kharoufeh, Sky News Weather presenter, said the radar is “very active” in New South Wales.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms hit Canberra overnight, delivering 49 millimetres—the capital’s heaviest rainfall in four years. The BOM predicts ongoing storm activity across central and northern New South Wales until Monday.
Melbourne Weather: Brief Respite from Severe Storms
Melbourne, while humid, largely avoided the worst of Saturday’s storms. A south-west change stabilised conditions by midday. However, thunderstorms are still likely in nearby regions. Heavy rainfall and flash flooding remain risks across Victoria, particularly in the eastern Murray Basin.
The BOM’s weather forecast highlights supercell thunderstorms as a concern for areas including Albury, Griffith, and Wagga Wagga. Supercells are the most dangerous thunderstorms, capable of producing destructive winds and giant hail.
Warmest Waters Fuel Widespread Storms
Australia’s tropical waters are currently the warmest on Earth, with temperatures reaching 32 degrees Celsius. These record sea surface temperatures are amplifying atmospheric moisture, fuelling storm activity.
A weather map from the BOM revealed widespread rain across most of Australia over the next five days. “The vast majority of Australian waters are warmer than normal, contributing to this wet summer,” the BOM said.
Weekend Weather Forecast for Storm Activity
The BOM forecasts thunderstorms for a broad band from the tropics to southern states this weekend. Severe thunderstorms are likely in New South Wales, Victoria, and parts of Queensland. Storms could bring damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding.
Sydney will remain humid, with temperatures peaking in the mid-30s before cooling slightly on Sunday. Melbourne weather should see cooler and drier air arrive, reducing storm risks. Brisbane and northern regions will continue experiencing storms through the weekend.
Rainfall Above Average for December
Just a week into December, rainfall totals are already above average in many regions. Central Australia and the Murray-Darling Basin have seen significant downpours, including 106 millimetres at Nyngan, double the monthly average.
Storms have also dumped heavy rain in other regions. On Friday, Nundle received 47 millimetres in one hour, while Bourke experienced wind gusts of 93 kilometres per hour.
Cyclone Risks Increase with Warm Seas
The BOM warns that warm seas and tropical convection could lead to pre-Christmas cyclones. Tropical waters, including the Gulf of Carpentaria and the Kimberley, exceed cyclone formation thresholds.
A cyclone developed near the Cocos Islands in late November, with more systems likely. The BOM predicts a 40 per cent chance of cyclone formation off Western Australia’s north coast by Thursday.
What’s Next for Australia’s Weather?
The BOM’s long-range modelling shows simmering waters and humid conditions persisting through January and February. This hot and wet summer will continue affecting weather forecasts, including thunderstorms and heatwaves.
In the next five days, almost every region in Australia will experience rain. Areas of over 50 millimetres are forecast across multiple states. Northern tropics and central Australia remain key zones for thunderstorm activity.
Stay Informed and Prepared
Australians should monitor weather forecasts and follow BOM updates to stay safe during this turbulent start to summer. Despite the challenges, experts believe this weather pattern reflects the increasing impact of warmer seas on storm activity.
The BOM advises residents to take precautions against flash flooding and high winds, especially in storm-prone regions. Whether in Sydney, Melbourne, or beyond, thunderstorms and heatwaves will shape Australia’s summer.
