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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.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s weather radar network uses ground-based stations across Australia to detect rain, hail and snow in real time. You can track approaching weather on the live radar above, with colour-coded intensity showing light drizzle through to heavy downpours.
How do I read the live BOM radar above?
The live radar displays reflectivity — how much precipitation is bouncing back to the antenna. Light greens indicate light rain (around 1 mm/h), while dark reds signal heavy rain (over 50 mm/h). Range rings are spaced at 64 km and 128 km; the outer ring is the maximum detection distance for most BOM radars, including those covering major capitals. For Melbourne’s local picture, switch to the 128 km zoom to see detailed cells moving across the city or out towards Marburg in the Yarra Ranges. Victoria’s live radar is especially useful during spring storms, giving you a heads‑up on fast‑moving squall lines.
Why trust the BOM radar network?
Australia’s 64‑radar network is continuously calibrated and maintained by the Bureau. Data updates every six to ten minutes, with some high‑priority sites refreshing faster. The 128 km range covers most populated areas, and composite images merge several radars for a national view. You can check weather radar pages for regional loops, or pair the radar with BOM weather text bulletins for precise rainfall totals.
How often does the BOM radar update?
Most BOM radars refresh every 6 to 10 minutes. Some sites in cyclone‑prone or high‑population areas update every 5 minutes during active weather events. The live radar above shows the latest available frame.
What do the different colours mean on a BOM radar?
Colours reflect rainfall intensity: light green (0.5–1 mm/h), yellow (5–10 mm/h), orange (20–30 mm/h) and red/pink (over 50 mm/h). Blues and purples can indicate hail or very heavy rain.
Why might the radar show rain but it’s dry at my location?
Radar observes rain falling at altitude, which may evaporate before reaching the ground (virga). Also, the beam overshoots low‑level showers 50–100 km out, so ground observations may differ.