Climate

Burke Shire is in a monsoonal climatic zone characterised by two seasoons - 'The Wet' and 'The Dry'

The 'Wet'

Summer months from December to March are hot and humid with average temperatures in the mid-thirties and maximums in the mid-forties . It is characterised by humid northerly monsoonal airflows. This period is sees abundant growth and activity of flora and fauna, including migrating species The wet season can be very erratic: at Burketown, which is typical of the region, the rainfall of various wet seasons has ranged from as little as 150 millimetres (5.9 in) to as much as 2,000 millimetres (79 in). Burke Shire Council expeienced a Monsoonal flooding event in early 2023 when the Albert River reached over 7 metres, exceeding the 2011 record flood level of 6.78m. Overall rainfall is low (from 750 mm on the coast to 500 mm inland) but if the wet season is at all strong, low-lying areas are flooded and even the few sealed roads are cut. The Gulf is also a breeding ground for cyclones during the period between November and April. Driving in the wet and monsoonal rain can be a hazard with many possible road closure.

The 'Dry'

Winter months from May to October have warm days averaging in the high twenties and low thirties, little rain, and offer cooler evening temperatures and clear night skies. It is characterized by very dry southeast to east winds, generated by migratory winter high pressure systems to the south.

In September and October, the Morning Glory Cloud appears in the Southern Gulf. The best vantage point to see this phenomenon is in the Burketown area shortly after dawn.