UPDATE: Australia’s Christmas Day forecast is a chaotic blend of scorching heat and unseasonably cool temperatures, prompting mixed plans for celebrations on December 25, 2023. As families prepare for the holiday, the Bureau of Meteorology warns of extreme weather conditions nationwide, with some regions facing highs of 41°C while others may need winter attire.
In a dramatic weather contrast, Perth is set to swelter under 41°C, with Brisbane following closely at 35°C. Meanwhile, residents in Melbourne and Hobart are bracing for much cooler temperatures, projected to reach only 17°C and 16°C respectively. Senior meteorologist Jonathan How noted, “If Melbourne only reaches 17°C, it will mark the coldest Christmas Day since 2006.”
Melbourne faces a chance of morning showers, with forecasts indicating possible snow flurries in the elevated regions. In stark contrast, Brisbane residents can expect “very muggy” conditions with thunderstorms likely to roll in during the afternoon, affecting celebrations across the region. Showers and potential storms are anticipated from the Sunshine Coast to Cairns, impacting much of the Northern Territory and the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
As for Darwin and Cairns, both cities are forecasted to see maximum temperatures in the low 30s. The Pilbara region of Western Australia could experience even more extreme highs, reaching the low to mid 40s. In contrast, Adelaide, Sydney, and Canberra will enjoy milder weather, with temperatures hovering in the mid 20s.
The significant temperature variations are attributed to a high-pressure system over the Great Australian Bight, a phenomenon not unusual for this time of year. How explained, “It just comes down to timing and unfortunately the coolest day of the week coincides with Christmas Day across Victoria and Tasmania.”
Looking ahead, conditions are expected to improve post-Christmas, with warmer temperatures anticipated for Boxing Day. “For Melbourne and certainly the southeast of the country, it will start to warm up heading into next weekend,” said How.
However, heatwave conditions are persisting in eastern and northeast New South Wales and southern Queensland. Areas like Penrith and Richmond could see projected highs in the low 40s, alongside other NSW centers such as Newcastle and Tamworth.
Severe weather warnings are in effect, with total fire bans declared in five districts across New South Wales and Victoria’s Mallee region. Authorities have issued alerts for potential heavy rain, destructive winds, and even tornadoes affecting communities in Mildura, Swan Hill, Euroa, and others.
As families prepare for Christmas, the varied weather poses unique challenges and opportunities for celebrations across Australia. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for rapidly changing conditions as the holiday approaches.
Stay tuned for further updates as forecasts continue to develop.
