WHY GOLD COAST IS ENJOYING AN ENDLESS SUMMER
THE Gold Coast has recorded more heat and less rain than average for April, with a balmy 31.1 degree day the hottest of the month so far.
The region is experiencing average maximum temperatures of 28 degrees – two higher than usual.
WeatherZone senior meteorologist Jacob Cronje said a number of factors were causing the hot weather to stick around through autumn.
“The humidity has been quite high for April so far,” Mr Cronje said. “Humid onshore winds have led to uncomfortable evenings. Warmer sea surface temperatures are helping to make that moisture (humidity) available.
“We’re looking at between 24 and 26 degrees (sea surface temperatures), and even a bit warmer than that.”
The region is also experiencing an extremely dry month. This month’s rainfall totals 25.4mm so far compared to the long term average of 138.4mm within the same time frame.
“We could see some healthier rainfall in coming days, but not too significant,” Mr Cronje said.
Mr Cronje added that the Gold Coast could be in for a warm, dry winter, with maximum temperatures reaching 30 degrees or more.
“Because we’re seeing new average temperatures each day, there could be days that are above that – it’s very possible,” Mr Cronje said.