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What Is Weather

HomeWeatherWhat Is Weather

Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Coast Monitor Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.

Weather is the state of the atmosphere at a particular time and place – temperature, humidity, rain, wind and clouds. Looking at the live forecast above, you can see today’s conditions for your area. Weather changes hour‑to‑hour, unlike climate which is the long‑term average over decades.

What is weather in science?

In science, weather refers to short‑term atmospheric conditions driven by air pressure, temperature, moisture and wind. Meteorologists measure these elements with instruments such as thermometers, barometers and rain gauges. The data is used to build forecasts, like the one shown above.

What is weather and climate – what’s the difference?

Weather is what you experience outside now – a shower, a gust of wind, a hot afternoon. Climate is the pattern of weather over 30 years or more. For example, the live forecast above shows today’s weather, while climate tells us whether this month is typically wetter or drier than average. This distinction matters for geography and science classes.

DefinitionDay‑to‑day state of the atmosphere
Key elementsTemperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, pressure, cloud cover
How it’s measuredWeather stations, satellites, radar and weather balloons
Forecasting methodComputer models combined with real‑time observations
What is weather for kids?

Weather is what happens in the air outside – sunny, rainy, windy or cloudy. It changes every day. Kids can watch the live forecast above to see what to wear or whether to take an umbrella.

What is weather class 7?

In class 7 science, weather is defined as the condition of the atmosphere over a short period – usually hours or days. Students learn about temperature, humidity, wind speed and rainfall, and how these are measured.

What is weather today?

Today’s weather is the current atmospheric state in your area. Check the live forecast above for temperature, rain chance and wind. It tells you what to expect for the rest of the day.

For more details, visit our Australia weather hub or see the current conditions for Sydney weather.