As the clock ticks down to midnight on December 31, 2024, Australians are keeping a wary eye on the skies. According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s (BoM) latest predictions, New Year’s Eve celebrations across the eastern seaboard could be dampened by showers and storms, even as a relentless heatwave continues to scorch much of the country.
Storms Threaten to Crash the Party
For revelers hoping to catch a glimpse of fireworks lighting up the harbor in Sydney, Mother Nature may have other plans. The iconic city is bracing for the possibility of evening thunderstorms and a sultry top of 30°C on Wednesday. Meanwhile, further north in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the chance of storms also looms, with maximum temperatures set to reach 29°C.
The risk of severe thunderstorms will continue for parts of Queensland, with showers becoming more extensive through the state.
– Miriam Bradbury, BoM Senior Meteorologist
The wild weather won’t be confined to the Sunshine State. Following a warm and humid lead-up to the final day of the year, New South Wales is also in line for showers and potential storms along the coast. However, those west of the Great Dividing Range may escape the rain, with the majority of southern and western inland areas expected to remain dry.
Sweltering in the South
As the mercury soars in South Australia, New Year’s Eve will be a hot and blustery affair. Adelaide is set to reach 29°C under sunny skies, but BoM warns that winds will pick up across the south of the state, with the slight chance of a shower in the far southeast.
Dry conditions are likely to persist inland, while low intensity to severe heatwave conditions continue to bear down on southern parts of neighboring Western Australia. Perth is poised to swelter through a blistering top of 38°C on the final day of the year.
Variable Conditions Across the Country
Not every corner of the country will be battling the elements this New Year’s Eve. After enduring a record-breaking heatwave in the lead-up to the festive season, some parts of Australia are in for a reprieve as 2024 draws to a close.
- Victoria can expect cooler conditions to usher in the new year, with Melbourne reaching a pleasant 23°C, accompanied by light winds and the chance of an evening shower.
- Across the Bass Strait in Tasmania, celebratory plans are looking up. Hobart is set to ring in 2025 with a mild top of 20°C, scattered showers, and cool conditions statewide.
- Further afield in the Northern Territory, the Top End will continue to sweat it out, with Darwin hitting 35°C amid typical tropical showers. A heatwave warning remains in place for the region heading into January.
As Australians from coast to coast prepare to bid farewell to a tumultuous 2024, it seems the weather gods have a few more surprises up their sleeves. While some will be reaching for their umbrellas or seeking refuge in the air conditioning, others will be basking in picture-perfect New Year’s Eve conditions. Regardless of the forecast, one thing is certain – the nation is ready to embrace the promise and possibilities of 2025.
