Cool Christmas tipped but cyclone could change outlook

Bunbury residents can expect a cool Christmas and Boxing Day this year, with an average temperature of 27C forecast for Sunday, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

Spokesman Neil Bennett said cyclonic activity around the State could change the forecast as the big day got closer, but for the moment it was set to be a relatively cool long weekend.

“The cyclone near Karratha will have an impact on the weather in Bunbury,” he said.

“The question is will the high pressure come in or will it hold off?

“That will determine the temperatures.”

Mr Bennett said Boxing Day would be cooler than Sunday, with a maximum temperature of 24C.

He said the start to summer had been relatively “cool”.

“It has been an average start to the summer, with the odd burst of heat,” he said.

Mr Bennett said with the cyclone activity around the State it was worth people checking the forecast regularly to make sure they were up-to-date.

City of Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club president Denise Duncan said volunteers would be patrolling the beach on Christmas Day, but still asked beach-goers to be careful in and around the water.

“We ask that people please swim between the flags,” she said.

“Also show respect to the surf lifesavers, as they are volunteering their time on a pretty big day of the year.

“Drink lots of water even though it is a mild day and please remember to slip, slop, slap and wrap.

“If you get in trouble, put your hand up and be calm, a lifesaver will get to you.”