Millions of Australians may need to adjust their long weekend plans due to adverse weather conditions predicted along the east coast, particularly as Anzac Day approaches. A significant cool change is moving through New South Wales and Victoria this week, accompanied by a low-pressure system, which is expected to deliver substantial rainfall from now until Sunday.
While some urban centres may enjoy mild temperatures typical of late April, dark clouds threaten to dampen the three-day weekend festivities for many. In Sydney, forecasts suggest around 46mm of rain could fall, after a wet start to the week. Although temperatures may reach a comfortable 25 degrees on Friday, those planning outdoor activities should prepare for potentially disruptive showers.
Northern NSW will likely face the brunt of this weather, with regions like Lismore and Yamba anticipated to receive between 25-50mm of rain on Friday. Melbourne is also gearing up for a rainy long weekend, with the heaviest downpour expected on Anzac Day itself, potentially bringing around 25mm of rain. The city’s temperatures could dip to 19 degrees on Saturday, following a warmer finish to the week.
Western Victoria might see 10-25mm of rain on Friday, but conditions are forecast to improve by Saturday. Conversely, Brisbane is set to enjoy milder temperatures, with highs of 26 degrees on both Friday and Saturday, although a few light showers are possible as the city narrowly misses the heavy rain affecting northern NSW. Far North Queensland may witness some rainfall over the weekend, with 10-15mm anticipated near the coast.
In Perth, the outlook for Anzac Day appears favourable, with dry weather expected to prevail. However, there’s a slight chance of rain along the south-west coast, and regions like North West Cape may receive 5mm of rain on Saturday.
Adelaide is predicted to have a mainly dry weekend, with temperatures peaking at 24 degrees on Friday. In the capital, Canberra, mostly cloudy weather is expected on Anzac Day, with highs of 24 degrees, although some rain may occur on Saturday. Darwin and Hobart are also expecting some rain, with Darwin likely to experience a warm spell at 30 degrees despite showers, while Hobart will see temperatures of 21 degrees drop to 18 on Saturday.
Overall, as the Anzac Day long weekend approaches, many Australians will have to brace for wet conditions, reshaping their plans as they remember and honour the spirit of the day.