Keep the Umbrella Handy: A Showery Start to Autumn on the Coast

Welcome to the First Day of Autumn

Sunshine Coast residents waking up this Sunday, 1 March 2026, will notice a distinct change in the air as we officially transition into autumn. While the summer heat has begun to mellow, the first day of the new season is bringing a damp start to the region. A firm ridge of high pressure over south Queensland waters is driving moist southeasterly winds across our coastline, resulting in a day characterized by passing showers and high humidity.

Morning and Afternoon Predictions

The morning is expected to be the wettest part of the day, with a 70% chance of showers forecast across the region. Early risers can expect light rain and overcast conditions through the mid-morning hours. As we move into the afternoon, the rain is likely to become more sporadic, transitioning into 'passing showers' with periods of cloud cover. Despite the dampness, it will remain quite warm and sticky; humidity levels are expected to hover around 71% to 83%, making the maximum temperature feel slightly warmer than the mercury suggests.

Temperature Range

Today’s temperatures will remain fairly consistent with our late-summer averages. We are looking at a daytime high of 28°C, while the overnight low is expected to settle around 21°C. For those heading out, the moderate heat combined with the moisture will create a typical sub-tropical autumn feel, so light, breathable clothing is recommended between the rain breaks.

Wind and Marine Outlook

For our boaties and fishers, conditions on the water will require a bit of caution today. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a coastal forecast indicating southeasterly winds of 15 to 20 knots. These winds are expected to reach up to 25 knots offshore, particularly north of Maroochydore, during the early morning and again later this evening. Seas are expected to remain between 1 to 2 metres, with a southeasterly swell of approximately 1.5 metres. If you are planning a beach visit, stick to the flagged areas, as the wind may create choppier conditions than usual.

Evening Outlook and UV Safety

As the sun sets at 6:19 PM, the shower activity is expected to taper off, leaving us with a partly cloudy evening. While the cloud cover provides some protection, the UV index is still rated as moderate to high during the middle of the day. Even with the rain, it is important to remember sun protection if you are spending extended time outdoors. Looking ahead, the showers are expected to clear by Monday afternoon, making way for a mostly sunny start to the work week.