Parts of south-east Australia are bracing for heavy rain and thunderstorms this Easter long weekend, with South Australia, western New South Wales, and north-west Victoria expected to experience significant weather disruptions.
The anticipated rainfall is attributed to the remnants of Tropical Cyclone Megan and a low-pressure trough that initially affected the Northern Territory and Queensland but is moving south.
According to Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Sarah Scully, tropical moisture will shift from southeast Queensland to central Queensland by Thursday to western Queensland by Friday.
This shift will likely result in heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the affected regions. However, pinpointing the exact locations for thunderstorms and the heaviest rainfall remains challenging.
NT farmers welcome rain despite logistical challenges; Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane stay dry.Severe thunderstorms are anticipated in the Northern Territory, with potential flash flooding and disruptions to transportation routes.
Flood watches have been issued for over 40 rivers in Queensland and the NT, including regions such as south-west Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, and parts of the Gulf country. The BoM has highlighted flood risks in areas like the upper Victoria River and the Tanami Desert.
In March, the Northern Territory saw record-breaking rainfall, with Rabbit Flat receiving 444mm and other locations like Territory Grape Farm and Arltunga also reporting significant amounts.
Extreme weather analyst Thomas Hinterdorfer forecasts more than 50mm of rainfall along Queensland’s south-east coast, with some areas potentially seeing over 100mm, and isolated spots could exceed 200mm.
For NT cattle farmers, the recent rains are a boon. Lil Bryant of Mount Doreen Station, which recorded 320-330mm in March, appreciates the beneficial effect of the rain, helping sustain cattle feed and fostering grass growth.
Although the wet weather has impacted transport and cattle work schedules, Bryant remains optimistic, appreciating the unexpected moisture despite some logistical challenges.
In contrast, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are expected to enjoy fine weather over the weekend, with temperatures in the mid-20s and minimal rainfall.