Perth is experiencing an exceptionally wet winter, with rainfall figures nearing their highest levels in two decades. According to Weatherzone, the long-term rainfall averages for June, July, and August are expected to surpass records last set in 1996. So far, the city has recorded 129.8 mm of rain in June and 174.4 mm in July, both significantly above the usual amounts for this typically sunny region.
As August progresses, Perth has received another 88.8 mm of rain, approaching the halfway mark of the month. To surpass the 1996 rainfall record of 122.7 mm, only an additional 34 mm is needed, and forecasts indicate that more rain is on the way. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts further downpours, starting today and likely continuing into early next week, fuelled by a persistent cold front.
Alongside the heavy rains, record-breaking wind gusts have been recorded, with speeds of 117 km/h noted in the Jandakot area, exceeding the previous high of 113 km/h from 1990. The severe weather has resulted in downed trees and scattered debris across the Perth metropolitan area. Although the Bureau describes these conditions as typical for this time of year, they have cautioned residents about potential dangers associated with the wild weather.
A strong marine wind warning remains in effect across multiple coastal regions, including the Perth local waters, Lancelin Coast, and Bunbury Geographe Coast. In summary, Perth’s winter of 2023 is shaping up to be one for the record books, with significant rainfall and wind events impacting daily life in the city.