As the weekend approaches, Australians can expect a mix of weather conditions, from scorching heatwaves in the north to thunderstorms across various regions.
Warm and humid air from the tropics is pushing wet weather over the country, and the Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for severe storms, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales.
Eastern Australia has seen consistent rain and thunderstorms this month, with severe weather hitting Queensland and New South Wales on multiple occasions.
This trend looks set to continue, especially in the coming days, as thunderstorms are forecast for parts of Western Australia, northern New South Wales, and much of eastern and southeastern Queensland.
Regions like Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Darling Downs are expected to experience heavy rain, damaging winds, and large hailstones.
While severe storms are a concern, parts of northern Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia are facing ongoing heatwaves, with temperatures expected to remain high, offering little relief unless rainfall is experienced in the area.
Queensland braces for thunderstorms while battling bushfires; intense weather expected through the weekend.Senior meteorologist Angus Hines noted that southern states should prepare for warm weather, but a cold front will bring cooler conditions by Sunday, along with extreme fire weather warnings due to hot, gusty winds.
One of the factors fueling the storm activity is the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), which is currently in a positive phase.
This climate driver shifts westerly winds away from the country, opening the door for humid easterly winds to move in from the Coral Sea, further exacerbating storm formation.
In addition to thunderstorms, Queensland is grappling with a heightened risk of bushfires, as dry conditions persist in areas that haven’t received rainfall.
With over 1.25 million hectares of land already burned this year, residents are being urged to stay vigilant as dangerous fire weather continues to unfold.
As Australia faces a mix of severe weather, from storms to heatwaves and bushfires, it’s a crucial time for preparedness across the country.