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This climate chart displays updated data for Hobart, Tasmania, from 1991–2020, categorized under the same Cfb climate classification (temperate oceanic climate).

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Tasmania is the smallest island state of Australia, located 240 km south of Victoria, geographically positioned both the Southern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. Separated by the Bass Strait.

The capital - of the state is Hobart.

Total area - 68 401 square km., slightly larger than Sri Lanka and similar in size to the Republic of Ireland.

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Tasmania is the most mountainous state in Australia.

The Сentral and Western parts of the island state are dominated by the Central Highlands. Where the Mount Ossa is the highest point - 1617m. a.s.l.

The Central-Eastern parts of the island state are occupied by the flat Midlands. The lowest point is the Indian Ocean - 0m.

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Underwater Forests in Tasmanian East Coast 

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Underwater Forests in Tasmanian East Coast 

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Tasmanian Giant Kelp Marine Forests are the greatest marine ecosystems in the region.

It is an endangered ecological community, listed under the EPBC Act of the Commonwealth of Australia. The community is found in coastal waters of Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania.

Found in cold water regions in shallow coastal waters. Typically found in temperate south eastern waters on rocky reefs where conditions are cool and reasonably nutrient rich.

Threats to the community include:

increase in sea surface temperature due to climate change.

range expansion of kelp-grazing sea urchins (due to these temperature changes).

land-use changes resulting in increasing sediment flows which decrease the quality and availability of kelp habitat.

global warming, including warming ocean waters, stresses plants as they grow in cold waters between 5 °C and 20 °C.

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RCP 4.5 - shows a moderate increase in temperatures in the around 1-3C per century in Tasmania. This indicates some level of global warming but mitigated by actions to reduce emissions. In the map, the temperature changes are less intense as we can see light orange and yellow colours. No extreme hotspots.

In this scenario human and ecosystems have some time to adopt for climate change.

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Tasmania has some of the best national parks in the world, about 19 for relatively small territory and the dense forests cover a significant portion of the island.

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ENSO - has the strongest influence on rainfall in the north and east of Tasmania during autumn and winter, while the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) has a greater influence on rainfall than the other drivers in spring for the north and midlands.

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Tasmania has developed its own plan towards mitigation: Reducing emissions is key.

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Tasmania has developed its own plan towards mitigation: Reducing emissions is key.

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Tasmania is:

The first Australian jurisdiction to achieve net zero emissions in 2014, and has maintained net zero for the last seven reported years (2021).

Was able to generate 100 per cent of its electricity needs from renewable sources since 2020.

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 Koppen climate classification of Tasmania

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 Koppen climate classification of Tasmania

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Tasmania has a cool temperate oceanic (Cfb) climate, with four distinct seasons, characterized by mild and variable weather patterns.

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Summer (December to February)

Climate: Mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C. The East Coast is warmer and drier, while the West Coast remains cooler and wetter.

Autumn (March to May)

Climate: Cooler temperatures, averaging 9°C to 18°C.

Winter (June to August)

Climate: Cold, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 11°C. The Central Plateau and highlands can experience snow.

Spring (September to November)

Climate: Mild weather with increasing sunshine, ranging from 7°C to 17°C.

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Latitude:
Tasmania is located at around 40° to 43° south of the equator, which places it in the temperate zone. This contributes to its cooler and milder climate compared to mainland Australia.

Surrounding Ocean:
The Southern Ocean helps keep temperatures more stable, preventing extreme heat in summer and extreme cold in winter.

Topography:
Tasmania’s mountainous terrain, especially the Central Plateau and Western mountains, affects local climates. The highlands are cooler and receive more rainfall, while the coastal areas and Midlands are drier and warmer.

Prevailing Winds:
Westerly winds from the Southern Ocean bring moisture, leading to higher rainfall on the west coast, where temperate rainforests thrive. These winds contribute to the milder and wetter conditions in the west, while the east coast remains drier.

Latitude and Elevation:
The Central Plateau and higher altitudes experience colder temperatures and snow in winter, while the lower-lying areas enjoy milder, more temperate weather.

Antarctic Influence:
Tasmania is affected by cold air masses from Antarctica, especially in winter. This brings cold fronts that can cause snow and frosty conditions, particularly in the southern and central regions of the island.

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Tasmania experiences a range of unique and peculiar weather phenomena due to its geography, proximity to the Southern Ocean, and varied topography. Some of these include:

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It is strong westerly winds that occur in the southern latitudes between 40° and 50° south. These winds can bring periods of rough weather, including heavy rain and storms, particularly along the west coast.

The strong eastward air currents are caused by the combination of air being displaced from the Equator towards the South Pole, Earth's rotation, and the scarcity of landmasses to serve as windbreaks at those latitudes.

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The Tasmanian Climate and Weather Service is primarily managed by Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), which provides weather updates, warnings, and forecasts for Tasmania and other parts of Australia. BOM offers a wide range of services, including:

Weather forecasts.

Severe weather warnings.

Radar and satellite imagery.

Climate monitoring.

BOM has 11 observation stations, 2 of them are centennial stations (Australia – Hobart, WMO number: 94970, Australia Low Head WMO number: 95964 )

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Tasmania is known for experiencing "foehn" winds, which occur when moist air is forced over mountains, loses moisture, and then descends, warming and drying. This can result in rapid temperature increases on the east coast, sometimes as much as 10°C within a few hours.

These winds can cause dry, warm conditions even in cooler months.

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Coastal areas, particularly around the southeast and in the Derwent Valley near Hobart, can experience dense fog due to the interaction between warm air and cool ocean waters.

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Northern and Southern lights both have the same origin.

It occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field, producing vibrant displays of light in the sky.

The vivid colors we see are introduced by atoms where green and red represent oxygen while the mixture of blue and green is nitrogen.

The Aurora Australis can be seen year-round, but it is most frequent during the winter months (May to August) due to longer, darker nights. Solar activity peaks, such as during geomagnetic storms, increase the chances of a vivid display.

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Temporal variability of mean annual temperature and precipitation – time series (1961-2023):

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Temporal variability of mean annual temperature and precipitation – time series (1961-2023):

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Here we see that the mean annual temperature has increased to 11.4°C (compared to 11°C in the earlier data).

The warmest months are still January (16.3°C) and February (16.0°C), showing a slight warming trend.

The coldest months remain July (6.9°C) and June (7.2°C), which are slightly warmer than before.

The red line for temperature trends shows a similar seasonal variation, but with slightly higher values.

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Course of monthly mean temperatures from 1961 to 2023

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Course of monthly mean temperatures from 1961 to 2023

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Recent research has indicated that climate change impacts the Tasmanian devil population. Arid conditions and habitat loss reduce prey availability, exacerbating the challenges faced by devils.

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RCP 8.5 - showes much more complex pattern of precipitation changes.

The map suggests a distinct spatial pattern of precipitation change, with drying trends inland and wetting trends along the coast and over the ocean under RCP8.5.

These trends could result in significant regional impacts, particularly in inland areas with declining precipitation.

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Warming Trend:

All seasons show a gradual upward trend in temperatures over time, indicating long-term warming.

The increase is particularly notable in summer (Dec-Feb) and spring (Sep-Nov).

Variability:

The red lines show fluctuations from year to year, which are normal due to natural variability (e.g. El Niño).

Despite this variability, the general warming trend is evident.

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Tasmania is named after Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who first sighted the island in 1642. Originally called "Van Diemen's Land", it was renamed in 1856 to honor Tasman and move away from its penal colony history.

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This climate graph represents the data for Hobart, Tasmania, based on the years 1961–1990, with a Cfb climate classification (temperate oceanic climate).

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Meet the master excavators:

Wombats are the world’s largest burrowing mammals. These solitary, sleep-loving herbivores can grow up to 85cm in length and weigh as much as 20 kilos.

Climate adaptive creatures, their dietary system is adjusted to the current circumstances.

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Climate change is already influencing Tasmania in various ways, affecting its environment, economy, and communities. 

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Climate change is already influencing Tasmania in various ways, affecting its environment, economy, and communities. 

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1.Rising Temperatures

Tasmania has experienced an increase in average temperatures over recent decades.

This has led to longer growing seasons but also heightened risks of heatwaves and droughts.

2. Bushfires

Higher temperatures and drier conditions have increased the frequency and severity of bushfires.

Iconic regions like the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area have been impacted, with fires damaging ancient vegetation such as pencil pines and alpine ecosystems that are slow to recover.

3. Sea-Level Rise

Rising sea levels are threatening coastal areas, including low-lying towns and infrastructure.

Increased erosion and flooding are affecting beaches, estuaries, and coastal habitats.

4. Marine Ecosystems

The warming of ocean waters around Tasmania has disrupted marine ecosystems.

Species like the giant kelp forests have declined significantly, while invasive species like the long-spined sea urchin have thrived, damaging underwater habitats.

5. Changing Weather Patterns

Tasmania has experienced more extreme weather, including heavier rainfall in some areas and prolonged droughts in others.

Agricultural industries are affected, with shifts in growing conditions for crops like wine grapes and apples.

6. Impact on Wildlife

Changes in habitat and food availability are affecting native species, including the Tasmanian devil and bird populations.

Shifts in seasonal patterns disrupt breeding and migration cycles.

7. Economic Challenges

Bushfires, floods, and changes in natural resources have economic consequences for tourism, forestry, and agriculture.

Climate change threatens Tasmania's clean and green image, a key aspect of its appeal.

8. Health Impacts

Increased pollen from extended plant growing seasons is leading to higher rates of hay fever and asthma.

Heatwaves pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations.

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The south-eastern coast of Tasmania is recognised as a climate-change hotspot. Maria Island has experienced several extreme weather events over the years. Here are some examples:

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Tasmania has faced significant bushfire events in recent years, which have affected various parts of the island.

The 1967 Tasmanian fires were an Australian natural disaster which occurred on 7 February 1967, an event which known as the Black Tuesday bushfires. They were the most deadly bushfires that Tasmania has ever experienced, leaving 64 people dead, 900 injured and over seven thousand homeless.

On Friday 28 December 2018, several bushfires were discovered following lightning in western Tasmania on 27 December, with many being brought under control over following days.

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Moving towards clean energy and greener strategy.

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Moving towards clean energy and greener strategy.

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What is expected by 2030:

The volume of organic waste sent to landfills by 50 per cent.

Improved management of landscapes to support emissions reduction and resilience.

Increased new timber plantations, expanding the adoption of agroforestry in Tasmanian farming systems.

Reduced livestock emissions by implementing livestock management strategies to reduce methane emissions.

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The East Coast of Tasmania, has experienced record marine heatwaves. These heatwaves have had ecological impacts on marine life.

Marine heatwaves - prolonged periods of abnormally high sea surface temperatures, typically lasting days to months.

Impacts:

1. Ecosystem Damage

Giant kelp forests: Declined dramatically due to heat stress, with over 95% lost along the East Coast.

Long-spined sea urchin: Warmer waters have allowed this destructive species to expand southward, overgrazing kelp forests and creating "urchin barrens."

Biodiversity loss: Warmer waters have disrupted marine habitats, affecting species reliant on cooler temperatures.

2.Fisheries and Aquaculture

Rock lobster and abalone: Declines in population and productivity due to habitat changes and competition from invasive species.

Salmon farming: Elevated water temperatures stressed fish, reducing growth and increasing disease risks.

3.Socioeconomic Effects

The loss of kelp forests and impacts on fisheries have affected the livelihoods of Tasmanian fishers and aquaculture operators.

Tourism linked to marine ecosystems, such as diving and fishing, has also been impacted.

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Many parts of Tasmania feeling the lack of rain.

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Tasmania has experienced several prolonged dry periods, often linked to climate change, natural variability, and phenomena like El Niño events. These dry periods significantly impact agriculture, water supply, and ecosystems.

Millennium Drought (1997–2009):

Duration: Over a decade, with varying severity across Australia, including Tasmania.

Impact:

Eastern Tasmania experienced significantly reduced rainfall, particularly in the Midlands and East Coast regions.

Water stress for agricultural sectors, particularly grazing and cropping.

Increased reliance on water storage and irrigation systems.

Cause: A combination of natural variability (El Niño phases) and long-term climate trends.

2015–2016 Dry Period

Duration: Approximately 18 months.

Impact:

Tasmania experienced its driest spring (September–November) on record in 2015.

Reservoir levels dropped, affecting hydroelectric power generation, which supplies about 90% of Tasmania's electricity.

Severe impacts on agriculture, with reduced pasture growth and crop yields.

The dry conditions contributed to the 2016 bushfires, which burned over 120,000 hectares, including areas of the World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness.

Cause: A strong El Niño event combined with long-term warming trends.

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After a very dry period from September 2015 to April 2016, Tasmania saw its wettest May to December on record. This extreme transition from drought to heavy rainfall led to record grain production.

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A wombat lunch in Maria Island, Tasmania

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Thank you for your attention!

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Tasmania has the cleanest air in the world.

Thanks to its remote location and minimal industrial activity, Tasmania boasts some of the purest air on the planet.

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The highest recorded maximum temperature is 42.2 °C at Scamander on 30 January 2009, during the 2009 southeastern Australia heat wave.

The lowest recorded minimum temperature is −14.2 °C on 7 August 2020, at Central Plateau.

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As we can see the mean annual temperature - 11°C.

The warmest months are January (15.6°C) and February (15.7°C), indicating a mild summer.

The coldest months are July (6.2°C) and June (6.8°C), reflecting cool winter conditions.

The red line on the graph shows the temperature trend, with a noticeable dip in winter and a peak in summer.

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Here we see the total annual precipitation - 709.2 mm, which is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year.

The wettest months are October (68.2 mm) and November (66.3 mm).

The driest months are January (44.8 mm) and February (47.1 mm).

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The total annual precipitation has decreased to 637.3 mm (previously 709.2 mm), indicating a reduction in rainfall over the years.

The wettest month is now August (65.3 mm), similar to the earlier period.

The driest months are still March (40.9 mm) and February (46.3 mm), showing a reduction in summer rainfall.

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Looking at these graphs, we can clearly see that Hobart's climate has shown a warming trend over the decades, with summer and winter temperatures rising slightly.

Precipitation has decreased, indicating a drier climate in recent years.

This is evidence of climate change.

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RCP 8.5 - the worst scenario represents significant rise in temperatures, often exceeding 4-7C per century. The extreme heat zones tell us about the severe impact of emissions.

The most affected areas can be seen particulary in the North, which are more vulnerable to climate change impacts.

RCP 8.5 - would lead to drastic changes, including more severe heatwaves, biodiversity loss, and chalenges to agriculture and water resources.

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RCP 4.5 - illustrates complex pattern of precipitation changes, with a drying trend over land and wetter conditions over oceans.

As we can see on this map, the northern parts of Tasmania are more dry yellow shades), and the lower we go down to the south, the more wet the conditions are.