Australia’s weather this Christmas is shaping up to be a mixed bag. While southern states can expect mostly mild and settled conditions, the tropics are likely to see showers, thunderstorms, and the early arrival of a monsoon.
In the west, conditions are set to sizzle.
Across the country, temperatures and rainfall will vary significantly, so it pays to check the forecast before hitting the road. Here’s what we can expect.
New South Wales
Most of NSW is expected to enjoy a relatively mild Christmas Day, with settled conditions across much of the state.
Onshore winds along the coast may bring a light shower or two, particularly around Sydney, but heavy or persistent rain is unlikely.
Temperatures are expected to remain below average for this time of year, with generally comfortable summer conditions.
Weatherzone has forecast a high temperature of 27 degrees in Sydney.
Do you have a story? Contact newsroomau@yahoonews.com
Christmas Day will deliver a mixed bag of weather conditions across Australia. Source: Getty
Victoria
Victoria is likely to experience cooler-than-average conditions on Christmas Day.
A developing southerly airstream is expected to bring occasional light showers, mainly affecting southern areas.
Related: Monsoon to strike Australia ‘before Christmas’
Overall, most regions should see partly cloudy skies with temperatures below the December average.
Weatherzone is forecasting a top of 19 in Melbourne on Christmas Day.
Queensland
Queensland’s weather will be more variable due to tropical moisture moving south.
Widespread showers are expected in tropical areas, while the rainband may edge closer to Brisbane.
There is a chance of isolated showers in the southeast, but severe rain is not expected.
Weatherzone has forecast a balmy 31 in Brisbane.
Conditions will vary across Queensland, from heat to rain. Source: Getty
South Australia
South Australia is forecast to have a mostly sunny Christmas Day.
A sea breeze should help keep temperatures comfortable, preventing extreme heat. The day is expected to feel like a typical December summer day.
Weatherzone predicts Adelaide temperatures to 26C.
Western Australia
Perth is set for a hot Christmas, with temperatures potentially reaching the high 30s or close to 40°C.
A northeasterly airstream from inland deserts will bring a heatwave to the west coast.
Most of southern WA is expected to see clear skies and dry conditions.
Weatherzone is forecasting an incredible high of 39 degrees in Perth.
West Aussies will swelter through a heatwave this Christmas. Source: Getty
Tasmania
Tasmania will see cooler, more unsettled conditions, with daily rain-bearing systems likely leading up to Christmas.
Showers are expected mainly in western areas, while Hobart is likely to have a mostly dry day by the 25th.
Temperatures across the state will generally remain below average for December.
Weatherzone is predicting Hobart to reach just 18.
Northern Territory
Darwin and much of northern Australia will experience monsoonal conditions, with showers and thunderstorms expected.
A very moist northwesterly airstream may deliver prolonged rainfall in some areas.
Rivers and low-lying areas may be at risk of flooding, particularly in the Gulf of Carpentaria, but there are currently no indications of tropical cyclone development.
Weatherzone says Darwin will likely hit a high of 32.
ACT
Canberra is forecast to have a typical summer day with mostly sunny skies and moderate temperatures. Extreme heat is not expected, making it a comfortable day for outdoor activities.
Canberra will likely see a high temperature of 29, Weatherzone says.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
