UPDATE: Perth is experiencing its coldest day in over half a century, with temperatures plummeting to a maximum of just 11.4C on August 28, 2023. This marks the lowest daily maximum since July 29, 1975, when the temperature also reached 11.4C, leaving residents in awe as the city faces heavy rain and hail.
This unprecedented cold snap is attributed to a cold front sweeping across the region, bringing frigid air from the southwest. Grace Abbott, a meteorologist, confirmed, “We had a cold front move over the State yesterday morning, leading to this very cold air mass affecting much of the South West Land division today.”
Perth is not only shivering but also soaked, with nearly 170mm of rain recorded this month—almost 50mm above the monthly average and just 16mm shy of the August record. Hail has blanketed significant areas of the city, prompting reactions from residents like Amanda Tweddle, who remarked, “There was plenty of hail all over the neighbouring rooftops and covering the roads. I went to get photos and videos around 8:15 AM, there was just so much!”
For some, the icy conditions have made daily tasks challenging. Len Tarapacz, owner of Eco Ice Australia, shared the difficulties faced by ice suppliers during such cold weather. “It’s normally cold when you go in the freezer, but it was so cold today that your hands don’t really get a break,” he explained.
Despite the chilling conditions, the Weather Bureau predicts a warming trend by the end of the week. “A high-pressure ridge will move in, gradually increasing our maximum temperatures,” Ms. Abbott added. “However, minimum temperatures will remain around 5-6C in Perth.”
Residents are advised to prepare for a couple of sunnier days starting Thursday or Friday. As the city grapples with this historic cold spell, the community is coming together to share experiences, making this weather event one for the books.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
