After a dismal start to the ski season, abnormally warm conditions in Australia are likely to continue for the coming weeks.
- Professor, School of Mathematical And Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney
Fast-flowing jetstream air currents have shifted further southwards, dragging rain-bearing weather away from Australia.
New research suggests global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of wind gusts from thunderstorm downbursts, with serious consequences for air travel.
A region’s climate is defined over periods of 30 years. In a world affected by global warming, we need new tools to improve these definitions.
Less rain will fall in the Darling River catchment as climate change worsens. This fact must be central to decisions about how much water can be taken from the system.
Contrary to popular belief, new research shows the abrupt, often gale force wind changes known as “southerly busters” are becoming more frequent, but less severe, as the climate changes.
Flash floods are getting more common, as warmer air can hold more moisture. But there are other changes leading to more inland flooding on the east coast.
Recent flash droughts in parts of NSW and Victoria appeared quickly and can be followed by intense flooding rains. It’s part of a global trend driven by global warming.
Very hot days in Western Sydney are typically 5 degrees hotter than parts of the city close to the coast and are becoming more common, but only in the west. Four climate drivers explain the difference.
Worsening droughts and flooding likely threaten the future of cotton farming – by far the most important crop in the basin.
Global warming is changing the high-altitude autumn winds over southeast Australia, which means less rain and trouble for air travel.
The rain isn’t letting up for Australia’s east. Remarkably, the low-pressure band that drenched Brisbane is now spawning not one but two east coast lows for Sydney – more typically seen in winter.
During the warmer months, the number of days when the river ceases to flow will increase. Climate change is to blame.
Contact Lance for
- General
- Media request
- Speaking request
- Consulting / Advising
- Research collaboration
- Research supervision
- Article Feed
- Joined
