Many Queenslanders are in for a warmer and wetter winter than usual.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) released its winter long-range forecast today, which stated warmer than usual winter maximum and minimum temperatures were very likely across the state.
It also stated winter rainfall was expected to be in the typical range for much of the state, with parts of the south and west likely to have above average rainfall.
The BOM statement said the winter long-range forecast showed day and night temperatures were likely to be above average across all Australia for this time of the year.
“Winter rainfall is likely to be above average for interior and central parts of the country. For parts of Australia’s tropical north, the south-east and the south-west, rainfall is expected to be in the typical winter range.”
It said typical rainfall meant there was a roughly equal possibility for these areas receiving above, below or near-average rainfall.
“This includes parts of South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania that have been affected by prolonged dry conditions as well as parts of New South Wales recently impacted by severe flooding.”
The statement said the winter forecast followed an autumn which was much wetter than average in the north and east of Australia, and much drier than average in many southern parts.
“Australia’s fire agencies advise there is an unseasonal increased risk of fire this winter across parts of South Australia and Victoria.”
