Oppressive Heat and Humidity Raging Across Eastern Australia! (credit: Higgins Storm Chasing)

DISCUSSION: As the sun continues to rise over the "Land Down Under," there will be an increasing threat for strong (or even possibly severe) thunderstorms across several areas in eastern/southeastern Australia.  As shown in the graphic above (courtesy of the Higgins Storm Chasing team), there are now relatively large SWEAT Index values unfolding across several densely populated cities in eastern to southeastern Australia.  As a consequence of these high SWEAT Index values coupled with the particularly hot surface temperatures and high levels of humidity, there will continue to be a threat for strong to severe thunderstorms across the areas highly in red and pink in graphic above.  It is important to bear in mind that "air mass" type thunderstorms which often erupt under the type of environmental conditions are typically unpredictable in nature and timing.  Therefore, if you can hear thunder in the distance, always be sure to respect the power of Mother Nature and seek shelter under the thunderstorm threat has abated.  For those of you reading this that currently are in or know somebody who is currently situated in (or near) cities including (but not limited to) Sydney, New Castle, Central Coast, Gosford, etc. tell them to keep their eyes to the skies today.

To learn more about other high-impact weather events occurring across Australia and the South Pacific, be sure to click here!

@2017 Meteorologist Jordan Rabinowitz