UPDATE: The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has swiftly reversed its controversial website changes following a wave of public outrage. Just days after launching a new design on October 31, 2023, the BOM announced it will revert to the previously favored rain view, a decision driven by intense feedback from users across Australia.
The revamped site went live last week, boasting “design and functionality improvements” for forecasts and weather warnings. However, the backlash was immediate and fierce. In South Australia, one community weather page branded the new site a “sh*t show,” while another critic quipped, “A toddler could do a better job with crayons.” The frustrations culminated in Environment Minister Murray Watt demanding an explanation from BOM officials.
Queensland Treasurer David Janetzi also criticized the update, highlighting “critical flaws” in how weather data was displayed during storms. He pointed out that areas like Caboolture, a rapidly growing region in southeast Queensland, had vanished from the BOM map, severely affecting users’ ability to interpret vital storm information.
In response to the overwhelming feedback, BOM issued a statement late Friday, confirming the return to the standard rain reflectivity display (dBZ) format. Acting Chief Executive Peter Stone emphasized, “We’ve listened to your feedback and have restored the previous radar colour scheme.” This change aims to restore clarity and reliability for users dependent on accurate weather data.
The BOM’s decision is part of a broader commitment to enhance user experience. Stone noted that further updates and improvements are on the way, stating, “More changes are in the pipeline.” Users can now choose to view rain data in either rain reflectivity (dBZ) or in millimeters per hour (mm/h), aligning the website’s functionality more closely with the popular BOM weather app.
This urgent update underscores the agency’s responsiveness to community needs and the importance of accessible weather information. As meteorological conditions continue to evolve, the BOM’s commitment to user feedback will be crucial in maintaining public trust and safety.
Stay tuned for more developments as BOM prepares to implement additional changes based on user feedback.
