It’s nearly Christmas, and for Aussies, that means one thing: what’s the weather going to be like? As Christmas Day approaches, early forecasts are already hinting at what the big day might look like. While it’s still a bit too early for the final word, the signs are promising for most of Australia’s capital cities. So, whether you’re planning a BBQ in the backyard or heading to the beach, here’s what you can expect.
Sydney and Melbourne: A Few Showers, But Sunshine on the Way
Sydney and Melbourne, two of Australia’s biggest cities, will see some weather action, though it looks like it won’t spoil the Christmas spirit entirely. In Sydney, the forecast predicts a high of 28°C with mostly cloudy skies and some showers clearing as the day goes on, reports 7News. While it might not be perfect beach weather for a full day of sunbaking, it looks like there’ll be enough breaks in the clouds for some outdoor fun.
Meanwhile, Melbourne isn’t looking too bad either. The city’s expected to have a high of 24°C, with partly cloudy skies and some drizzle that should clear up in the afternoon. It’s not a heatwave by any means, but if you’ve got your Christmas lunch or dinner planned outdoors, it should be cool enough to enjoy. It’s still early days, but at least for the moment, it’s not all doom and gloom for those looking forward to celebrating Christmas outside.
Perth and Adelaide: Sun, Sun, Sun
If you’re in Perth or Adelaide, get ready for more classic Christmas weather: sunny and warm. Perth is forecast to have a high of 32°C with mostly sunny skies. If you’re spending your day on the beach or at a BBQ, it looks like you’ll get the weather you’ve been hoping for. Adelaide is also looking fantastic, with a high of 28°C and mostly sunny skies throughout the day. These cities are likely to see plenty of sun, which is perfect for those who prefer a classic Aussie Christmas with the great outdoors as the backdrop.
Canberra, Hobart, and Darwin: A Mixed Bag
For Canberra, Hobart, and Darwin, it’s a bit more mixed. Canberra will have a high of 30°C, with mostly cloudy skies and some clearing showers. Hobart, on the other hand, is in for a high of 21°C, with a bit of drizzle but clearing by afternoon. If you’re planning on being outside, a light jacket might be a good idea. As for Darwin, expect a high of 33°C with morning fog, showers, and a chance of storms. Definitely a more tropical vibe, so if you’re out and about, keep an umbrella on hand just in case.
What to Expect Closer to Christmas
While it’s still a bit early to set your Christmas plans in stone, these early forecasts give a good sense of what to expect. Weather forecasters always say that the closer you get to the date, the more accurate predictions become. As the countdown to Christmas continues, expect to hear more detailed updates from the Bureau of Meteorology.
For now, though, it looks like most of Australia will enjoy a pleasant (if not perfect) day for celebrating. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunny beach or hoping for a cool, rainy day to enjoy some inside-time, the 2026 Christmas forecast looks promising. Here’s hoping the weather stays on track as we get closer to the big day!
