The Bureau of Meteorology’s preliminary report on Australia’s 2024 climate reveals significant deviations from historical averages. While the full Annual Climate Statement is anticipated in early February 2025, the preliminary findings are a reminder of our unique climate, and also provide an opportunity to reflect on how businesses and communities can better prepare for changing weather patterns.
2024 was Australia’s second-warmest year on record, with temperatures 1.46°C above the long-term average, bringing with it several significant heatwaves. December’s heat events, including a peak of 47.2°C in Birdsville, were a reminder of the challenges posed by rising temperatures.
Heatwaves affect not just comfort but operations across a huge range of industries, from construction to energy to retail. Managing heat risk is essential for businesses, whether protecting workers or ensuring equipment operates safely. EWN provides temperature monitoring and tailored alerts that help organisations respond effectively to extreme heat.
The warmth persisted all year long. Across the nation, summer 2023–24 ranked as the third-warmest on record, winter was the second-warmest, and spring was the warmest ever recorded.
Twelve-monthly mean temperature decile for Australia (Image source: Bureau of Meteorology)
Rainfall across the country showed notable variability. Parts of northern and central Australia experienced above-average totals, with rainfall across northern Australia (north of 26° S) experiencing the fifth-wettest year since national records began in 1900. Other regions, such as southern areas of South Australia, much of Victoria, Tasmania and more, saw deficits.
Storms like those in Queensland during December brought localised but severe impacts, with strong winds and flash flooding causing disruption, which highlighted the importance of timely alerts and detailed risk assessments. EWN’s services, including real-time severe weather alerts and GIS-based visualisations, equip clients to make informed decisions, whether it’s moving equipment, securing assets, or adjusting schedules.
As weather patterns shift, moving from reactive responses to proactive strategies is becoming increasingly important. EWN’s weather solutions empower businesses to plan and mitigate the impact of severe weather.
For example, our GIS platform allows users to overlay real-time weather data with their own assets, helping to predict potential disruptions and optimise operations. These insights are particularly valuable for industries like logistics, insurance, and utilities, where weather impacts can be significant.
The data from 2024 is a timely reminder of the role weather plays in our lives and operations. While extremes are part of Australia’s climate, preparedness can make all the difference in minimising their effects.
At EWN, we’re committed to helping businesses and communities stay informed and ready. By combining cutting-edge forecasting technology with practical tools, we aim to support resilience and enable smarter decision-making.
As we look to 2025, the focus remains on equipping clients with the insights they need to navigate weather challenges effectively. Because while we can’t control the weather, we can control how we prepare for it.