Australians can now access long-range marine heatwave forecasts on the Bureau of Meteorology’s website. These forecasts play a crucial role in helping governments, industries, and communities prepare for changing ocean conditions.
In 2024-2025, Australia experienced its warmest ocean temperatures on record, leading to widespread marine heatwaves. These heatwaves, which are periods of unusually high sea temperatures, can have serious consequences:
- They can damage protected species and marine ecosystems, like coral reefs.
- They disrupt coastal communities and industries such as fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism.
The Bureau updates the forecasts three times a week. They provide information on:
- The likelihood of marine heatwaves.
- Potential severity.
- Locations where heatwaves may occur, projected up to four months in advance.
This information is vital for:
- Adapting operations in marine industries.
- Planning conservation efforts and surveys.
- Briefing communities affected by these changes.
The development of these long-range forecasts comes from a partnership between the Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO. This collaboration is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, and CSIRO itself.
According to recent research from the CSIRO, marine heatwaves have doubled in frequency since the 1980s, showing the urgent need for tools to monitor ocean conditions. Experts warn that these rising temperatures will increasingly affect marine life.
Social media discussions reflect growing concern about climate change and its impact on marine environments. People are sharing stories about the lost coral reefs and the need for better conservation practices.
For more detailed meteorological forecasts and information, visit the Bureau of Meteorology’s website here.
