How do I use the rainfall and thunderstorm forecast map?

Select either rainfall accumulation or thunderstorm layer using the tabs above the map. Use Windy's timeline controls at the bottom to view forecasts from 12 hours up to 5 days ahead. Zoom in on your region for more detail.

How often is the rainfall forecast updated?

The forecast data is updated multiple times daily based on the latest meteorological models including ECMWF, GFS, and other high-resolution models. Updates typically occur every 6-12 hours.

What do the rainfall colors mean on the map?

Colors represent rainfall accumulation amounts. Light blue indicates light rain (1-5mm), darker blues show moderate rain (5-20mm), greens represent heavy rain (20-50mm), and yellow-red colors indicate very heavy rainfall (50mm+) which may cause flooding.

How accurate are rainfall forecasts for Australia?

Short-term rainfall forecasts (12-48 hours) are highly accurate, typically 80-90%. Accuracy decreases for longer-range forecasts. Tropical regions and areas with complex terrain may have more variability. Always check for updated forecasts closer to your event.

What's the difference between rainfall accumulation and thunderstorm forecast?

Rainfall accumulation shows total expected precipitation over a time period (12h, 24h, 3 days). The thunderstorm layer shows the probability and intensity of thunderstorm activity, which includes lightning risk and potential for severe weather.

Can I see the rainfall forecast for my specific city?

Yes! Zoom into your location on the map for detailed local forecasts. For specific city forecasts with additional data like hourly breakdowns, visit our location weather pages for Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and 6,000+ other Australian locations.

Rainfall & Thunderstorm Forecast Australia

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How to Use:

Use the timeline at the bottom of the map to select forecast periods. Zoom and pan to explore different regions. Click on any location for detailed precipitation data.

Understanding Rainfall & Thunderstorm Forecasts

Rainfall and thunderstorm forecasts are essential tools for planning activities, protecting property, and staying safe during severe weather. Our interactive maps display precipitation predictions from world-leading meteorological models.

Australia's diverse climate means rainfall patterns vary dramatically between regions. Tropical areas in the north experience monsoon seasons with heavy rainfall, while southern regions see winter-dominated precipitation. Understanding these patterns helps you prepare for weather conditions specific to your location.

Reading the Rainfall Color Scale

Light Rain

1-5mm accumulation. Light showers, umbrella recommended.

Moderate Rain

5-20mm. Steady rainfall, outdoor activities may be affected.

Heavy Rain

20-50mm. Significant rainfall, potential for localized flooding.

Very Heavy

50mm+. Flood risk, check BOM warnings and avoid travel if possible.

Australian Regional Rainfall Patterns

Northern Australia (Tropical)

Wet season (November-April) brings heavy monsoonal rainfall and thunderstorms. Darwin, Cairns, and northern Queensland experience most annual rainfall during this period. Thunderstorms are frequent and intense.

Southern Australia (Temperate)

Winter-spring rainfall (May-October) is typical for Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Hobart. Cold fronts bring steady rain with occasional thunderstorms. Summer can bring isolated thunderstorms.

East Coast (Subtropical)

Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast have year-round rainfall potential. East coast lows can bring intense rainfall events. Summer thunderstorms are common, especially in southeast Queensland.

Central Australia (Arid)

Inland areas receive irregular rainfall, often from remnant tropical systems or cut-off low pressure systems. When rain does occur, it can cause flash flooding in normally dry riverbeds.

Staying Safe During Heavy Rainfall

Never drive through floodwater—"If it's flooded, forget it"

Stay away from creeks, drains, and waterways during heavy rain

Move vehicles away from low-lying areas that may flood

Clear gutters and drains to prevent water damage to property

During thunderstorms, stay indoors away from windows

Monitor BOM weather warnings for your area

City-Specific Weather Forecasts

For detailed hourly rainfall forecasts, UV index, and comprehensive weather data for your city, visit our location-specific weather pages:

Sydney Weather Melbourne Weather Brisbane Weather Perth Weather Adelaide Weather Darwin Weather Hobart Weather Canberra Weather Browse All 6,000+ Locations →

Planning weeks ahead?

Check Australia's long-range seasonal outlook for rainfall, temperature and the climate drivers (ENSO, IOD, SAM, MJO) shaping the next three months.

View Australia's Seasonal Weather Forecast

Frequently Asked Questions