Image: State Library of Victoria
Image: State Library of Victoria - Researchers have developed Australia's longest daily temperature record, identifying a decrease in cold extremes and an increase in heatwaves since 1838. Lead researcher Dr Joelle Gergis from The Australian National University (ANU) says the study examined daily records from around Adelaide. "We've been able to place recently observed daily temperature extremes in a longer context by using historical weather records from the Adelaide region," she said. "Our analysis shows that snow was once a regular feature of southern Australian climate. As Australia continues to warm, we have seen a clear decrease in cold extremes and an increase in heatwaves." While most other historical studies of Australia's climate have looked at annual or monthly values, the new record means it is now possible to look at daily extremes. "This is important as the impact of global temperature increases on human health, agriculture and the environment are most keenly felt through extreme events like heatwaves," Dr Gergis said. Researchers used hundreds of historical newspapers and documents to reconstruct the impact of past temperature extremes. The study focused on the previously undescribed pre-1910 period to extend the Bureau of Meteorology's official record. For example, an outbreak of cold air on 22 June 1908 delivered widespread snow across the hills surrounding Adelaide.
TO READ THIS ARTICLE, CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT
And extend your reading, free of charge and with no commitment.
