The latest long-range forecast for February to April from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) shows warmer days and nights that are likely to be warmer than average across the country. The rainfall outlook is for equal chances of above or below average rainfall for most areas. Sea surface temperatures are forecast to be warmer than average for the period with neutral ENSO conditions expected to return in the Pacific Ocean by end of summer.

December temperatures were above average for most of Australia, and rainfall in eastern Australia was below average. Root soil moisture in major dairying regions is below average due to high temperatures and low rainfall.