Plan ahead and learn about the pros and cons of the country’s wet season!
Through Australia’s eight states and territories, the climate varies greatly, home to both freezing cold conditions, sweating humid regions, and some areas as dry as the Sahara dessert. Australia experiences these varieties of climates due to the vast size of the continent. There are six distinct climate groups within the country, named the Equatorial, Tropical, Sub-tropical, Desert, Grassland and Temperate. Unlike the rest of Australia, which has the classic four seasons of weather, the sub-tropical and tropical regions, which are located in the north of Australia, experience just a wet and dry season. This covers the regions of the Northern Territory, the Northern region of Western Australia as well as a large portion of Queensland.
What is the Wet Season?
From November until April, the tropical region of Australia faces its wet season, characterized by high temperatures, monsoonal rains, and sweltering humidity. In comparison, the dry season has clear blue skies, warm days and cool nights. The wet season may seem like the worst of the two, guaranteeing you a terrible time amidst Australia’s north, but it can actually provide you with some great advantages.
Cons for the Wet Season
Understandably the wet season can have its drawbacks, as the rain can put a damper on outdoor activities if you are unlucky. Tropical monsoons can cause a number of issues, including cancelled tours, flooded roads, and cloudy waters for snorkelling. If you aren’t one for heat and humidity, the wet season guarantees these two features no matter what week you visit.
Pros for the Wet Season
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The Wildlife
See the landscape come to life in iridescent greens with pops of colour from the flourishing flowers. The wet season means rain, and with rain comes an array of unique plant life you wouldn’t see any other time of year. The season is a wonderland for wildlife, with animals busy breeding across the wilderness.
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The Stunning Light Display
Tropical thunderstorms may seem scary in some circumstances, but they are just as spectacular. You will be spellbound by the incredible cloud formations, colours and fantastic lightning shows of these incredible natural occurrences. The everyday skies are just as interesting, with the sunsets during the north’s wet season some of the best you’ll ever see in Australia.
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You Skip the Crowds
Due to most people wanting to skip out on the rain and humidity, the wet season of Australia is typically less crowded with visitors. Guaranteeing you plenty of flexibility and space to sightsee the area. Park rangers and staff have more time for you, giving you more one on one experiences during your tours and treks. Even accommodation costs are lower, and no need to book months in advance.
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Full flowing waterfalls
Waterfalls that slow to a trickle from the lack of water in the dry season can suddenly explode into a thundering torrent when the wet season arrives. This can make for some impressive photos – just be sure to stay safe as rising water levels and currents can be unpredictable during downpours.
