Pack the Brolly: Stormy Skies Set to Sweep Through Adelaide

Morning: A Bright and Warm Start

Adelaide is expected to wake up to a golden morning this Tuesday, February 17, with the sun rising at 6:51 AM. Early temperatures will hover around a crisp 15°C, making it an ideal window for morning exercise or the daily commute. As the sun climbs, the mercury will rise steadily, with clear skies dominating the early hours. However, residents will notice a shift by mid-morning as broken clouds begin to gather, signaling a change in the air mass as humidity levels start to climb across the metropolitan area.

Afternoon: Storm Potential and Peak Heat

The middle of the day will bring the most significant weather activity for South Australians. Forecasters are predicting a maximum temperature of 29°C, but with humidity levels rising to approximately 62%, it will feel noticeably more oppressive than the dry heat experienced earlier in the week. Between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, there is a 60% chance of precipitation, with isolated thunderstorms expected to develop. While the total rainfall is predicted to be relatively light—likely ranging between 1mm and 3mm—the sudden nature of these summer storms could catch many off guard. It is advised to secure light outdoor furniture and keep an eye on the radar if you have outdoor plans.

Evening: Clearing Skies and Cooler Breezes

The atmospheric tension is set to break by early evening as the storm cells move eastward toward the Adelaide Hills. By 6:00 PM, the cloud cover will begin to thin, allowing for a more pleasant end to the day. A consistent southwest wind of approximately 19 km/h will provide a refreshing cooling effect, helping to drop the temperature back to a comfortable range for those dining outdoors. Sunset is scheduled for 8:11 PM, and the clearing skies may offer a spectacular twilight display. Overnight, conditions will remain calm and partly cloudy, with the temperature settling back down to a low of 15°C.

Key Forecast Details for Tuesday

• Temperature Range: An overnight low of 15°C reaching a daytime peak of 29°C.
• Rainfall: 60% chance of showers, with a risk of afternoon thunderstorms.
• Wind: Southwesterly winds at 19 km/h, potentially gusting higher during storm activity.
• UV Index: Reaching moderate to high levels; sun protection is recommended despite the intermittent cloud cover.
• Humidity: Peaking at 62% during the afternoon.