BOM
URGENT UPDATE: The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has announced a dramatic reversal of its recent website update, responding to widespread public outrage over its user-unfriendly features. Effective immediately, BOM will restore the previous rain view on its website, a decision made after intense criticism from users across Australia.
The revamped website went live on October 25, 2023, boasting what BOM described as “design and functionality improvements.” However, backlash erupted almost instantly, with a popular community weather page in South Australia labeling the site a “sh*t show.” Comments on social media ranged from criticisms of its usability to outright disbelief, with one user stating, “A toddler could do a better job with crayons.”
The situation escalated as Environment Minister Murray Watt summoned BOM officials for a “please explain” regarding the update’s efficacy. Queensland Treasurer David Janetzi highlighted the “critical flaws” in how critical weather data was presented during a recent storm. He noted that the town of Caboolture had disappeared from the BOM map, severely impacting residents’ ability to interpret vital storm information.
In a statement released on October 31, 2023, BOM confirmed it would revert to the default rain view on its radar and weather map. Acting Chief Executive Peter Stone expressed that the bureau is committed to responding to community feedback, stating, “We’ve listened to your feedback and have restored the previous radar colour scheme.”
The restoration means that the radar will display rain reflectivity (dBZ) as the standard, returning to a user-friendly visual style that many found intuitive. Users will also have the option to view rain data in millimetres per hour (mm/h), aligning the website’s interface with the popular BOM weather app.
BOM’s commitment to making changes does not end here. Stone confirmed that “more changes are in the pipeline,” indicating that the bureau plans to implement ongoing improvements based on user feedback.
This swift action from BOM highlights the importance of user experience in critical services, especially during severe weather events. As communities across Australia rely heavily on accurate and accessible weather information, the bureau’s responsiveness is crucial for public safety.
Stay tuned for further updates as BOM continues to enhance its services in response to user needs.
