Thunderstorms and Showers to Sweep Through the Capital

Morning Storm Risks and Cloud Cover

Residents of Canberra should prepare for a damp start to Thursday, 12 February 2026. Early morning predictions indicate a significant chance of thunderstorm activity across the Australian Capital Territory. According to the latest data, the morning hours will likely be dominated by thick cloud cover and the potential for early-morning electrical storms. These conditions are part of a broader weather pattern affecting the region, bringing unstable air and a high probability of precipitation shortly after sunrise.

Commuters are advised to allow extra travel time, as the 57% chance of rain is expected to manifest in periods of light to moderate showers during the morning peak. While the storm risk is highest in the pre-dawn and early morning hours, the cloud ceiling will remain low through the midday period, keeping the sun at bay for much of the first half of the day.

Afternoon Transitions and Evening Outlook

As we move into the afternoon, the weather is expected to transition from active storm cells to more consistent light showers. While the intensity of the rain may decrease compared to the morning burst, the sky will remain mostly cloudy. The Bureau of Meteorology and other tracking services suggest that the moisture levels will remain high, with humidity levels hovering around 49% to 50% throughout the afternoon.

By the evening, conditions are forecast to stabilize slightly. The chance of rain drops significantly toward the night hours, moving down to a 5% to 10% probability. This shift will see the thick cloud cover break up into periodic clouds, offering a much clearer and calmer night for the capital. However, the ground is likely to remain damp from the day’s earlier activity.

Temperature Range and Humidity

Despite the wet conditions, temperatures in Canberra will remain relatively warm, characteristic of the February summer season. The expected temperature range for Thursday is as follows:

• Maximum Temperature: 29°C (84°F)
• Minimum Temperature: 13°C (55°F) to 19°C depending on the timing of storm fronts.
• Apparent Temperature: Due to the humidity, it may feel closer to 30°C during the warmer parts of the day.

Wind, Rain, and UV Warnings

The weather service has highlighted several points of interest for those planning outdoor activities today:

• Thunderstorm Outbreak: A regional warning is in place for a thunderstorm outbreak that may bring severe cells and localized flooding to parts of the territory.
• Wind Conditions: Expect West-North-Westerly (WNW) winds at approximately 18 km/h (11 mph). While not reaching gale force, gusts during thunderstorms could be higher and more unpredictable.
• UV Exposure: Despite the cloud cover, the UV Index is forecast to reach 7 (High). Sun protection is recommended between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
• Rainfall Accumulation: Total rainfall is expected to be manageable, though isolated areas may see higher totals if a storm cell lingers over the city.