Dry outlook prompts bushfire caution

Weather forecasters are urging communities across Australia to prepare for increased risks involving heatwaves and bushfires this summer.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued the warning while releasing its Severe Weather Season Outlook.

With parts of the country already experiencing major bushfires, bureau chief long-range forecaster Andrew Watson said Australian climate drivers pointed to a likelihood of more bushfire activity than usual.

“The Bureau outlook shows we’re likely to see more warmer and drier than average conditions for the coming months,” he said.

“This is due largely to a record strong positive Indian Ocean Dipole, that leads to drier air than usual over northwest Australia that supplies much of Australia’s rain.

“The increased odds of warmer-than-average days, coupled with a very dry landscape and a likely late start to the northern wet season, give a clear indication that we’re likely to see more heatwaves than normal.

“It also adds to the potential bushfire risk, particularly when you consider how dry many parts of southern and eastern Australia are at the moment.”

The Severe Weather Season Outlook also shows Australia has a lower risk of widespread flooding, and a near normal chance of severe thunderstorms, but Dr Watkins said communities still needed to be prepared.

“Severe thunderstorms and significant rain events can happen at any time,” he said.

“Not being complacent and taking the time to know your weather and know your risk is one of the best ways to stay safe during the coming severe weather season.”