RefDat Weather

Driest Australian Cities

Australian Weather Records and Climate Extremes
Lowest Annual Rainfall
133mm
Marree
Avg Max Temperature
29.3°C
hot and dry
National Average
876mm
per year

Australia's driest cities lie in the Great Victoria, Great Sandy, and Simpson deserts, where aridity defines the landscape and water scarcity shapes human habitation patterns. These arid and semi-arid regions receive minimal rainfall, with some cities averaging less than 150mm annually, creating hostile environments for traditional agriculture and water-dependent activities. The lack of moisture creates extreme temperature variations between day and night, sparse vegetation adapted to drought, and salt-laden soils. These driest locations define Australia's outback character, supporting unique wildlife and ancient cultures adapted to water scarcity. Understanding rainfall distribution helps explain settlement patterns, vegetation zones, and the immense challenges of developing infrastructure in Australia's interior.

Ranked by Lowest Annual Rainfall

City Annual Rain mm Avg Max °C Days >35°C
Marree 133 29.3 112
Exmouth 157 31.5 96
Coober Pedy 164 28.7 100
Port Hedland 171 33.4 135
Oodnadatta 173 30.5 129
Karratha 181 34.0 164
Whyalla 196 25.2 40
Ceduna 218 23.8 29
Mildura 228 24.7 47
Renmark 230 25.0 44
Berri 232 24.9 44
Monkey Mia 243 29.6 81
Carnarvon 244 28.7 48
Port Augusta 249 26.6 59
Marble Bar 252 35.7 204

About This Data

Weather records are calculated from 2024 climate data across 213 Australian cities. Temperature records show annual averages and extremes; rainfall rankings reflect total annual precipitation. Days above 35°C and frost days indicate exposure to extreme temperatures. This data helps you understand Australia's diverse climates and choose locations suited to your climate preferences.

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