Last year was the third hottest year on record for Australia, according to the latest Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) data released.
The BOM ‘Annual Climate Statement’ confirms that mean temperature was the third highest on record (1.14°C above average) and mean maximum temperature was the second highest on record (1.55°C above average).
Climate Councillor and climate scientist, Professor Will Steffen said: “These latest data from BOM come as no surprise. Climate change is intensifying around the world and Australia is no exception, as our climate system continues to set new extreme heat records.”
“Nine of Australia’s hottest 10 years have occurred since 2005, so the extremes in 2018 are part of a long-term trend, being driven by intensifying climate change,” said Will.
“2018 was a year of extreme heat across Australia, with NSW experiencing its hottest year on record for mean temperature (2.13°C above average) and Victoria sweltering through its highest mean maximum temperature on record (1.44°C above average),” he said.
“December 2018 was Australia’s hottest on record, with record-breaking mean, minimum and maximum temperatures,” said Will.