As the Easter holiday approaches, Australians are eagerly planning their long weekend, with many opting for domestic travel and road trips within their states.
The anticipation of the break is palpable, but so is the curiosity about the weather, which can be as varied as the landscape in a vast country like Australia.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has provided a glimpse into what we can expect weather-wise for Easter weekend, and it seems the forecast is as diverse as the country’s geography.
From mild and dry conditions to the potential for cyclone activity, Australians nationwide are advised to stay informed as they finalise their holiday plans.
BoM’s Senior Meteorologist Dean Narramore said conditions might get quite turbulent in the western parts of the country. At the same time, the eastern regions are expected to have sunny and peaceful weather.
The Bureau plans to release additional forecasts for the remainder of the Easter period in the days ahead.
New South Wales’s outlook appears promising for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Narramore predicted ‘a pretty nice Good Friday’, with dry, mild to warm, and mostly sunny conditions expected across much of the state. This weather is great for picnics in the park and leisurely strolls along the beach.
Queensland’s forecast is mixed. Inland areas are set to bask in warm and dry weather, while coastal regions may need an umbrella.
‘We could see a couple of coastal showers through Queensland, but much of the inland areas should stay dry,’ he said.
For those in the Far North, including Cape York and the Top End, prepare for showers and storms.
On the other hand, Victoria and Tasmania are on the watch for an approaching cold front that could bring gusty winds, showers, and a noticeable drop in temperature. The timing of this front is crucial, as it could mean the difference between a pleasant Friday or a brisk and wet start to the weekend.
‘If it’s a bit faster, we’ll see more rain and colder conditions on Friday. If it’s a bit slower, it might actually be a nice Friday, and then the weather will come on Friday night.’
Like Victoria, Tasmania faces an incoming cold front on Good Friday that may bring strong winds, rain showers, and a temperature drop. The situation may change rapidly depending on the speed of the front’s movement.
South Australia’s southern parts are also bracing for the cold front, while the northern and inland regions will likely remain mostly clear.
‘We’re likely to see a cold front moving through South Australia, bringing some clouds, showers and cooler, gusty winds,’ Narramore explained.
Western Australia faces the most uncertainty, with the potential for cyclone activity off the Kimberley coast.
‘A tropical system is expected to form off the Kimberley coast late Sunday into Monday, so we’re watching that closely, of course,’ he said.
He added: ‘Some guidance brings it onto the coast mid to late next week, others keep it offshore. That’ll obviously lead to an increase in showers, thunderstorms and strong and damaging winds as well, depending on its exact track and the intensity.’
Depending on the system’s path and intensity, coastal Western Australia could experience heavy rain, storms, and damaging winds next week.
As we prepare for the Easter break, it’s essential to watch the weather, especially with the BoM’s report that Australia experienced its warmest March on record and predictions of warmer-than-average temperatures through July, coupled with below-average rainfall.
How are you planning to spend your Easter weekend, and what precautions are you taking in light of the forecast? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
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