Winter nears its end as temperatures begin to warm across Sunshine State

As winter begins to fade, Queensland, Australia is set to experience a shift in climate, with warmer-than-average temperatures expected to take hold. Light rain is anticipated along the eastern coastline throughout the weekend, with the possibility of isolated thunderstorms particularly near the Gold and Sunshine Coasts on Sunday.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, a weakening weather system will bring scattered rainfall to various regions, with heavier precipitation possible in northern areas, including the north tropical coast and cassowary coast, where localised rainfall of 10 to 20 millimetres might be observed. While southern Queensland's drought-stricken regions may not see significant relief, the following week could offer some much-needed rainfall.

As the weekend progresses, lighter winds may bring patchy early-morning fog, especially around eastern areas. Despite winter still having a week to run, residents can expect warmer weather as spring approaches. A second weather system is forecasted to arrive next week, pushing temperatures significantly above average, particularly in the southern half of the state, with temperatures potentially reaching the mid-30s in the west and the mid-to-high 20s around the southeast.