El Nino and other factors make extreme weather events more difficult to predict, say scholars following scrutiny in the wake of destructive floods and storms.
Australia's weather bureau has finally declared an El Nino event alongside a second driver of dry weather, with communities told to prepare for heat and fire.
Spring is likely to be warmer than usual with below average rainfall for most of Australia, according to the Bureau of Meteorology's long-range forecast.
Temperatures in Canberra are likely to be well below average for the upcoming Easter long weekend, with rain forecast across much of the nation and wintry weather and snow possible in alpine regions.
Last year was a “bumper” one for Australia’s environment on the back of significant rainfall, but climate change, habitat destruction and invasive species remain ongoing threats, according to the latest edition of Australia’s Environment Report.
The ACTSES have received a number of calls for help after a heavy downpour across Canberra this afternoon saw cars stuck in the street, while the Canberra Centre was also evacuated.
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The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting likely severe thunderstorms across the ACT this afternoon, with the chance of severe and damaging winds, heavy rainfall and large hail.
Residents in parts of NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory are bracing for flooding after a year of record rains.
A heatwave expected to last until Wednesday across most of southern Australia saw Canberra reach 29C before midday with a forecast max of 33C on Monday.
