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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Aussie Pulse Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Use the live radar above to track rain and storms in real time. A weather radar sends out a microwave pulse; the returning echoes show where precipitation is falling and how heavy it is. This helps you decide whether to head out or wait for a break in the weather.
How does a weather radar work in simple terms?
A radar dish rotates, firing short bursts of energy that bounce off raindrops, hail or snow. The time it takes for the signal to return tells the radar how far away the precipitation is, and the strength of the return signal indicates its intensity. The Bureau of Meteorology’s network of radars covers most of the populated areas of Australia, giving you near-real-time imagery. The live radar above updates every 6-10 minutes.
What can I actually see on the radar?
Colours on the radar correspond to rainfall intensity — from light blue for drizzle through to deep red for very heavy downpours. Doppler radar can also detect wind direction and speed, helping identify potential severe storms. Keep in mind that radar shows what is happening *right now*, not what will happen in an hour. For short-term predictions, combine the live radar above with a Weather Forecast Australia page.
Why does the radar sometimes show rain that isn’t falling on me?
The radar beam scans at a height of several hundred metres above the ground. Rain at that height may evaporate before reaching the surface, especially in hot, dry conditions like a weather radar brisbane display in summer.
Can I see the radar for specific cities like Melbourne or the Gold Coast?
Yes. The live radar above can be zoomed to any location. Common searches include weather radar melbourne, weather radar sydney, weather radar adelaide, weather radar gold coast and weather radar noosa. For the most accurate data, use the weather radar bom source.
Is the radar useful for planning a trip to the beach or a hike?
It is one of the best tools for quick planning. Check weather radar brisbane bom or your local radar before heading out, and always carry a rain jacket if showers are nearby. Pair it with Severe Weather Warning pages for your safety.
For a full view of conditions across the country, visit our Australia weather hub or check Sources & standards for how we collect this data.