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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Australian News Desk Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
The live forecast above shows current conditions at Mawson Station, Antarctica, with the temperature, wind speed and wind-chill factor all playing their part in the day’s character. This coastal outpost is notorious for fierce katabatic winds and a short summer thaw, making each hour a study in extremes.
What makes Mawson’s weather so challenging?
Mawson sits on the edge of the East Antarctic ice sheet, where gravity-driven katabatic winds can roar down the plateau at over 100 kilometres per hour. Even when temperatures hover near freezing, the wind-chill can push the effective temperature well below −20°C. Summer brings a brief window of above-zero readings in January, but winter sees the mercury drop to −30°C or lower. The station’s position also means months of complete darkness in winter and constant daylight in summer, adding a unique seasonal rhythm to the forecasts.
How to prepare for Mawson’s weather
Anyone planning to travel to or work at Mawson needs layers, windproof outerwear and high‑quality goggles to protect the eyes from blowing ice. The Australian Antarctic Division provides detailed equipment lists. For Australian travellers wanting to compare conditions back home, our national weather hub includes weather radar Canberra and rain Canberra data, so you can see the contrast between the frozen south and a typical Canberra afternoon.
When is the best time to visit Mawson?
The mildest period is December to February, when temperatures hover around freezing and there is 24‑hour daylight. Even then, katabatic winds can strike without warning, so flexible planning is essential.
How do katabatic winds affect conditions at Mawson?
Katabatic winds are gravity‑driven and can accelerate to hurricane strength. They dramatically lower the perceived temperature, reduce visibility with blowing snow and create dangerous wind‑chill values that can cause frostbite in minutes.
Is there any rain at Mawson?
Mawson receives almost no rain – virtually all precipitation falls as snow. The annual water equivalent is about 200 millimetres, but drifting snow and high winds often make the accumulation hard to measure accurately.