Weather patterns across southeastern Australia took a sharp turn recently, thanks to a cold blast from Antarctica. This chilly air brought snow to various regions, including Tasmania and the southern mainland, with snow even reaching lower elevations like the Mount Lofty Ranges in South Australia and Mount Macedon near Melbourne.
Climate experts offer some insights into these weather shifts. Professor Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick from the Australian National University notes that many people find this winter particularly cold. However, she suggests that our memories may be a bit skewed. “It feels chilly compared to the last decade,” she explains, “but it’s actually much like winters from 50 years ago.”
This winter is also marked by higher-than-normal rainfall, largely due to warm ocean waters. Professor Matthew England from the University of NSW points out that the Tasman Sea has been around 2 degrees above average. “We’ve been experiencing unusual onshore winds,” he says. These winds bring moisture from the ocean, leading to heavy rains in coastal areas.
Looking ahead, Australia’s fire chiefs have raised concerns about bushfire risks for spring. Their seasonal bushfire risk assessment warns of increased fire danger in regions like Victoria and Western Australia. The AFAC, which advises firefighters, highlights that while surface moisture may seem adequate, deeper soils are still suffering from prolonged rainfall shortages. Some areas have recorded their lowest rainfall in recent times. If spring doesn’t bring enough rain, conditions could quickly worsen.
Bushfire risks are not limited to the southeastern states; parts of Western Australia like the Dampier Peninsula and the Central Kimberley are also under scrutiny. The south-eastern agricultural regions of South Australia are seeing similar warnings.
As we look at the broader picture, 2024 set records for global heat, and while 2025 has started off less intense, climate trends remind us that fluctuations are part of a larger pattern. Seasonal changes can vary dramatically, influenced by both local and global conditions.
The interplay of ocean temperatures and weather patterns not only affects our winters but also impacts future fire risks. As we adapt to these shifts, understanding the science behind them becomes essential for everyone.
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