Northern Territory long weekend weather outlook: A sprinkle of rain possible for Finke, Dry surge arriving in the Top End on Wednesday

08/06/2021

Two low-pressure systems off Australia's east and west coasts are squeezing a high-pressure system between them, forcing it northward over central Australia and drawing a cold airstream over the Northern Territory this week.

The cool airstream will bring a dry burst to the Top End from Wednesday through to Sunday. Strong winds are expected over the Gulf of Carpentaria waters on Wednesday and Thursday, associated with the arrival of the surge.

Heading to the Finke Desert race this long weekend?

A cloud band extending from the WA low pressure system will move over the Lasseter District on Saturday and into the Simpson District on Sunday. There is potential for some of light, patchy rain around Finke on Sunday.

Sub zero nights are in store for Alice Springs from Thursday, with the minimum overnight temperature potentially reaching -2 degrees. Morning frosts will become widespread and daytime temperatures will also be below average for remainder of the week.

Humidity will gradually increase again from Sunday, bringing fog back to the eastern Top End early next week.