Patterns of indicators of climate change for three different decades in Australia

Abstract

This study focused on assessing and analyzing meteorological characteristics based on rainfall and temperature data from eight stations in Australia over the past three decades (1991–2000, 2001–2010, and 2011–2020). A Mann–Kendall test, followed by Sen’s slope analysis, was conducted to evaluate the spatial and temporal patterns of the most common indicators of climate change. Several drought indices were used to monitor and detect drought occurrences in the study area. It was found that from 2011 to 2020, most stations recorded negative rainfall trends, with no significant trends overall. Northern Australia saw slight rainfall increases, the northeast had notable increases, and the southwest and southeast showed drying trends. Minimum temperatures increased in northern and northeastern Australia, with significant positive trends at some stations. Maximum temperatures showed slight increases, with several stations having significant positive trends. PET values were higher at stations with low rainfall and high temperatures. The results of the drought indices show a normal drought cycle that recurs every ten years. Additionally, the driest conditions were recorded in the most recent decade, with extreme dryness noted in 2011–2020 compared to previous decades, highlighting the complex and changing climate patterns in Australia with varying regional impacts.