Golden Autumn Sun to Grace the Capital this Maundy Thursday

Overview: A Classic Canberra Autumn Day

Residents of the capital can look forward to a quintessential autumn day this Thursday, 2 April 2026. As we move further into the season, the weather continues to deliver the stable, sunny conditions for which Canberra is famous during this time of year. Today is expected to be a bright and pleasant Maundy Thursday, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities before the long Easter weekend begins. Forecast models indicate a high degree of confidence in a dry day with generous sunshine and light winds.

Morning: A Crisp and Clear Start

The morning will begin with that familiar autumn bite in the air. Early risers can expect temperatures to hover around a minimum of 9°C to 11°C. While the Bureau of Meteorology has not issued any formal fog warnings, the cooling trend associated with the transition into the Ngunnawal season of Magarawangga (Early Winter) means light morning patches are possible in low-lying areas like the Molonglo Valley. These should burn off quickly after sunrise, giving way to clear, blue skies by the time the morning commute is in full swing. Light southeasterly winds will keep the air feeling fresh but shouldn't cause significant discomfort for those heading out for an early coffee or walk.

Afternoon: Peak Warmth and Sunny Spells

As we reach the middle of the day, the temperature will climb steadily toward a comfortable maximum of 25°C to 26°C. This is slightly above the long-term April average of 20°C, continuing the trend of warmer-than-usual daytime temperatures recorded throughout the start of this year. Conditions will remain mostly sunny throughout the afternoon, with only a few scattered clouds likely to appear. The UV index is expected to reach a moderate level of 4 or 5, so while the air may feel mild, sun protection is still recommended for anyone spending extended periods outdoors.

Evening: Cooling Down for a Settled Night

As the sun sets on this Maundy Thursday, the temperature will drop relatively quickly, a characteristic of Canberra’s inland climate. Evening temperatures will descend back into the mid-teens by 8:00 PM, eventually settling toward an overnight low of approximately 10°C. The sky will become partly cloudy overnight, but there is a very low risk of precipitation, with the chance of rain remaining at a negligible 10%. It will be a calm and settled night, perfect for those traveling or preparing for the upcoming holiday festivities.

Key Weather Statistics and Notices

• Maximum Temperature: 26°C
• Minimum Temperature: 9°C
• Chance of Rain: 10% (less than 1mm expected)
• Wind: Light southeasterly winds at 10-15 km/h
• Humidity: Average relative humidity of 50-52% during the day
• Warnings: No active wind, rain, or fire warnings for the ACT region

Overall, today is an ideal day to enjoy the changing colors of the capital's deciduous trees. Whether you are finishing up the work week or starting your Easter break early, the weather is firmly on your side.