Jay Fegan
The Southern Downs can expect a weeklong period of fluctuating temperatures, with scorching afternoons and cooler nights ahead up until New Year's Eve.
Weather predictions are currently indicating daytime high temperatures ranging from 26C to 30C, starting on the milder side and steadily increasing as the days progress. The forecast indicated a high of 35C on Monday, December 23, with temperatures dropping slightly to around 29C on Christmas Day and rising into the low to mid 30's leading up to New Year's Eve.
Light-to-moderate easterly winds can be expected during the warmer daylight hours with light to moderate winds from the southeast or east that will persist, staying around 10 km/h, though gusts could occasionally reach 20km/h.
Humidity levels are likely to climb, reaching 80% to 95%, particularly in the early morning hours. In contrast, overnight lows will drop significantly, settling between 16C and 20C as overnight winds are expected to remain mild, providing little reprieve from the cooler night-time temperatures.
Overall, Southern Downs residents should expect for a fortnight long period of contrasting weather conditions, with warm, breezy days and cool, humid nights.
