Australia Weather News
More than half of Tasmanian spring days so far this year have been subject to severe weather warnings, as windy conditions frustrate residents in the southernmost state.
On Sunday, Tasmania Police issued a public warning, urging people to reconsider non-essential outdoor activities given the severe weather.
Two people died in the state's north-west earlier this month after a tree fell during a severe weather event.
But, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, this spring in Tasmania has not been particularly abnormal.
"It is the prime time of year for severe weather warnings across Tassie; we see our strongest weather systems passing over the state at this time of year," meteorologist Urshla Connor said.
"It's not unusual to be seeing lots of severe weather warnings coming out, especially for those damaging winds."
The table below shows the highest wind gusts recorded on Monday as at 4:51 pm.
'Constantly agitated'
Despite the conditions being typical, many Tasmanians are frustrated by this year's spring serving of wind.
Danica Fuller said her seven-year-old daughter was neurodivergent and was terrified of strong winds.
"She goes from a high-achieving, enthusiastic student to completely refusing school, having meltdowns and panic attacks, and insisting that all curtains and blinds are closed," Ms Fuller said.
"The weather from the past few weeks has significantly impacted her school attendance and she has missed out on many activities due to her extreme fear."
Yasmine moved from Devonport to Hobart 10 years ago and said this year had been worse than any she could remember.
"[I'm] feeling constantly agitated.
"Can't go outside and do anything without hating everything and everyone, can't relax inside because of the constant howling."
Jason Andrew Smith is a cultural burning educator based in the Huon Valley.
"Being a traditional fire practitioner, I have only been able to run two workshops since the start of September," Mr Smith said.
He said between 2019 and 2023, September and October were two of his most "productive, enjoyable" months to run his workshops.
"Country is speaking, and we must listen."
The perfect recipe for wind
The ABC counted the number of severe weather warnings issued by the bureau since the start of September.
Out of the 50 days since September 1, 28 had a severe weather warning issued, most of which included damaging winds.
The first 11 days of October all had a severe weather warning.
Ms Connor said in spring there was a clash of warm temperatures moving south, and strong winter cold fronts.
"You get this clash of sort of warmer land but cold air, and that contrast between warm and cold creates strong temperature and pressure differences over Tasmania, which really fuels the wind."
But, there is a reprieve in sight.
"Usually … towards the end of our October, we start to see those winds sort of easing off slightly," Ms Connor said.
"Some people like to associate the [Royal] Hobart Show with the end of winter."
She said strong winds were expected to ease on Monday night and into Tuesday.
ABC