Seasons of the Territory

The Northern Territory boasts two distinct climates. There's the vibrant, tropical Top End and the sunlit, semi-arid Central Australia.

Despite its distinct conditions, the Territory thrives with a wealth of weather-friendly activities and seasonal delights that showcase and harness the region's unique climate.

Top End weather

The northern part of the Territory, which includes Darwin, Katherine and Arnhem Land, has a tropical climate with two seasons: the dry season from May to October, and the wet season from November to April.

The dry season

The dry season is filled with sunny days, clear skies and cool evenings. The humidity is lower, and the average daily temperature sits around 32°C.

Locals recognise the start of the dry season when the air is abuzz with dragonflies!

During these months, the Top End becomes a hub for festivals and events that take advantage of the great weather whilst our southern counterparts shiver through winter.

You will find locals and visitors alike enjoying the outdoors with activities like camping, fishing, exploring national parks, or watching a movie under the stars at Darwin’s iconic outdoor cinema.

Woman cheering at Bass in the Grass Music Festival in Darwin — Bass in the Grass festival in Darwin

Friends swimming at Berry Springs Nature Park in the Northern Territory — Friends swimming at Berry Springs Nature Park

The wet season (Tropical Summer)

Between November and April is the wet season, which is sometimes called the Green Season.
During this time warmth and humidity builds, culminating in spectacular thunderstorms that light up the sky.

With beautiful balmy evenings, and cooling tropical rainstorms, Territorians tend to enjoy exploring the Top End cuisine-scene; an abundance of gourmet dining, hip cafes and atmospheric bars. There are also many bustling markets that run all year round, showcasing Darwin’s vibrant multicultural community, fresh seasonal produce, and artisan stalls.

The wet season is also northern Australia’s cyclone season.

In the lead up to the cyclone season the Northern Territory Government reminds northern residents of cyclone preparedness.
For more information on preparing for cyclones go to SecureNT.

Red Centre weather

Central Australia has four seasons, but its desert climate makes travel and enjoying the region possible year-round.

The Red Centre’s semi-arid environment brings clear skies, minimal average rainfall, hot summer days and frosty winter nights.

Summer

Like Australia’s southern states, Red Centre summer falls between December and February. Temperatures range between 20°C and 35°C (68°F -95°F). January is the wettest month with around 40mm of rainfall, however the climate is considered dry for most of the year.

Autumn

Central Australian autumn is from March to May, where locals and visitors enjoy warm days and cool nights. Considered one of the best times to visit Alice Springs, average temperatures range from 12°C to 27°C (54–81°F). Making the most of the warm days and cool nights, festivals and events showcase the region’s diverse Aboriginal culture.

Winter

From June to August, winter in the Red Centre sees average temperatures drop between 3°C and 20°C (37–68°F), with frosty, below-freezing overnight temperatures not uncommon! Pleasant afternoon temperatures and much less rain than a southern Australian winter makes the Red Centre a peak tourist destination during this time.

Spring

From September to November, spring starts to defrost and warm things up again, with average temperatures between 13°C and 31°C (57–87°F). Spring can also bring spectacular thunderstorms and cool evenings. With wildflowers in bloom, spring truly showcases the resilient beauty of Central Australia.