Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Australia Pulse Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
If you see a rapid drop in central pressure on the live forecast above, expect gale-force winds and heavy rain: that is bomb weather, defined by a pressure fall of at least 24 hectopascals in 24 hours.
What defines bomb weather?
Bomb weather, or a bomb cyclone, occurs when a mid-latitude low deepens explosively. The Bureau of Meteorology issues warnings when a system’s central pressure drops at 1 hPa per hour for 24 hours. These systems often produce wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h, heavy rainfall, and coastal erosion. Check severe weather warnings and use the bom weather app for real-time updates.
Where does bomb weather happen in Australia?
Bomb cyclones typically develop off the east coast, especially in winter and early spring. Cities like Sydney and Brisbane can experience the effects, with damaging winds and rain. For local tracking, use bom radar sydney or bom radar brisbane. In southern regions, bom radar melbourne and rain radar help monitor approaching lows. Regional areas such as Gympie and Cairns may also be affected — refer to bom radar gympie and bom radar cairns.
Is bomb weather common in Australia?
Bomb cyclones occur a few times each year, mainly off the NSW and Queensland coasts. They are less frequent than in the North Atlantic but can still cause significant disruption.
How fast does a bomb cyclone develop?
Intensification is rapid: a drop of 12 hPa in 12 hours or 24 hPa in 24 hours qualifies as bombogenesis. Models often detect it 48–72 hours ahead.
Where can I track bomb weather?
The Bureau of Meteorology provides bom weather warnings and rain radar loops. Third-party sites like Weatherzone also offer pressure-trend charts. Always cross-check with official data.