Climate Extremes of the 20th Century

Do you remember Tropical Cyclone Tracy? How about the El Niño in 1982/83, when Australia was devastated by drought and fire? With the year 2000 on our doorstep, the Bureau of Meteorology is conducting a major review of Australian climate and its variations during the 20th century, and the effects these have had on Australians.

Eight sample events are linked here. These were selected from an archive of 50 major climate and weather events in Australia since Federation, compiled by the Bureau. The 50 events - selected to provide a balance in time and location - are categorized by type, and include: significant storms, fires, floods, droughts, cyclones, and extreme temperatures. We also cover "flip-side" events, when climate events saved the day - such as the timely rains in 1916-17, which eased an otherwise grim situation brought about by drought, economic problems, and war. Each type is represented in this sample.

For more information, please contact Bill Wright on w.wright@bom.gov.au.