SUMMER STICKING AROUND
SUMMER has officially ended but a cool change could still be a while off on the Gold Coast.
Weather experts predict warm temperatures for the first two months of autumn, with the mercury not dropping significantly until closer to winter.
Commonwealth Games visitors can expect a warmer than usual April, with a high chance of heavy rain during the 12-day event.
Cassie Bagley of Burleigh Heads made the most of the final day of summer, spending her 24th birthday at the secluded Cedar Creek Falls.
“We just looked up cool waterfalls on the Gold Coast and Cedar Creek popped up,” she said. “I’d never been before but it was amazing. I think it’s pretty hidden, it’s a bit of a secret gem, I’d definitely go back.”
During the sweltering Gold Coast summer a record was broken, with the hottest Christmas Day recorded in over 10 years. It hit a steamy 35.7C at the Seaway, while Coolangatta soared to 35.6C, 8C above average.
Last weekend was one of the soggiest days on record in three years, with more than 160mm falling in some areas.
Weatherzone forecaster Brett Butschke said more rain and thunderstorms were expected next week – and possibly for the Games.
“It is hard to forecast so far into the future, but I wouldn’t rule out some pretty warm days and a good downpour during the first two weeks of April,” he said.