Crisp Southern Breezes and Clear Skies: A Refreshing Reprieve for Adelaide

A Welcome Break from the Heat

Adelaide residents can look forward to a significant and welcome drop in temperature today, Thursday, 12 February 2026, as a cool southerly change sweeps across the metropolitan area. After a sweltering Wednesday that saw the mercury climb into the mid-thirties, today offers a refreshing reprieve with a predicted maximum of 24°C. This shift marks a pleasant departure from the intense summer heat, providing the perfect conditions for outdoor activities without the usual February burn.

Morning Outlook: Clearing Skies

The day begins with a touch of lingering cloud cover, described by meteorologists as a period of "decreasing cloudiness." Early risers likely noticed a crisp start to the day, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 14°C. As the sun rose at 6:45 AM, the initial cloud layer provided a brief window of shade before the skies began to open up. Humidity levels are sitting at a comfortable 37%, ensuring that the morning air feels dry and bracing rather than heavy or muggy.

Afternoon Peak and Wind Conditions

By midday, the clouds are expected to have largely cleared, giving way to "mostly sunny" conditions across the plains and up into the Adelaide Hills. The temperature will reach its peak of 24°C in the mid-afternoon. While this is significantly cooler than earlier in the week, the sun’s intensity remains high. The UV Index is forecast to reach "Extreme" levels, peaking around 11, which means skin damage can occur in as little as 15 minutes of unprotected exposure.

Winds will be a notable feature of the afternoon. Expect consistent southerly winds ranging between 25 and 35 km/h. These breezes will keep the "feels like" temperature slightly lower than the actual reading, providing a cooling effect that will be felt most strongly in coastal suburbs like Glenelg and Henley Beach.

Evening and Overnight Summary

As the city heads toward sunset at 8:13 PM, the wind is expected to shift slightly, turning south-easterly and easing to between 15 and 25 km/h. This transition will bring a clear and calm night, ideal for outdoor dining or a late evening stroll. Temperatures will gradually decline back toward the mid-teens, setting the stage for a restful night’s sleep.

• Maximum Temperature: 24°C
• Minimum Temperature: 14°C
• Rainfall: Less than 1mm (5% chance)
• UV Index: Extreme (Sun protection highly recommended)
• Wind: South to South-easterly, 15 to 35 km/h

With a negligible 5% chance of rain, umbrellas are not required today. However, despite the milder temperatures, the combination of clear skies and high UV ratings makes sun protection the primary safety concern for all South Australians today.