Australia’s south-eastern cities shiver as Melbourne experiences its coldest day in half a decade, with temperatures dropping to 10.1°C. Frost and strong wind warnings issued as cold snap continues.
Melbourne Records Coldest Day in Five Years
Melbourne experienced its coldest day in five years on Thursday, with temperatures reaching a high of only 10.1°C by 5pm. On Friday morning, temperatures during commuter hours were recorded at a chilly 8.7°C. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued frost and strong wind warnings for Victoria’s north-east and the East Gippsland coast, respectively.
Sydney saw temperatures rise to 16.7°C on Thursday, dropping to single figures overnight. The forecast for Friday predicted a high of 17°C with increased showers. Hobart recorded 7.6°C at 9am Friday, while Griffith in New South Wales saw its lowest maximum temperature in eight years at 9.2°C on Thursday. Canberra experienced overnight lows of -0.3°C, with an expected high of 13°C on Friday.
Meteorologist Angus Hines noted that the cold conditions are due to a stagnant southerly wind bringing cold air from the Southern Ocean, driven by a low-pressure area in the Tasman Sea. Below-average temperatures are expected to continue into the following week. Snow has already fallen in alpine regions of Tasmania, Victoria, NSW, and the ACT earlier in the week. However, no significant snow is forecast for the coming week due to a lack of precipitation.
Overall, the south-east of Australia will continue to experience frosty nights and cold days as the winter solstice approaches on 21 June. The Bureau’s long-term forecast suggests a warmer-than-average winter and early spring, though possible cold outbreaks could occur.
Washington D.C. Nears 90°F Amid High Heat Pulse
Washington D.C. almost hit the 90°F mark on Thursday, which has been rare for June this year. The National Weather Service forecasts even warmer conditions on Friday, with temperatures potentially reaching the low to mid-90s.
Though clear, cooler weather is expected overnight with lows in the upper 60s to low 70s. Friday will feel distinctly summery, with strong sun through the morning and midday. Late afternoon or evening storms may break up the heat, with possibilities of severe weather.
Pollen levels remain moderate/high for grass and low/moderate for weed and mold spores, while tree pollen is low. Though records aren’t expected to be broken on Friday, higher temperatures next week may challenge previous records set in 1994.
For ongoing updates, readers are encouraged to follow forecast services online and through social media platforms for detailed daily weather briefings.
