Cape Moreton has more 20-degree nights than anywhere else in Brisbane, according to BOM data

Dr Christa Pudmenzky discusses Moreton Bay's rising night time temperatures. What could this mean for your next power bill?

Moreton Bay experiences two more January nights reaching at least 20 degrees than it did 50 years ago. Cape Moreton, 28 January 2021, Source: Monash University.

Moreton Bay residents can expect more wet weather this weekend, with showers forecast and temperatures remaining in the mid 20s.

During January, Moreton Bay experiences two more nights reaching at least 20 degrees compared to 50 years ago.

This means almost every January night is at least 20 degrees, according to the Cape Moreton weather station.

This is more than anywhere else in Brisbane.

Voices from your community

Because temperatures were warmer, Margate resident Melanie spent less time in her garden.

"I struggle to grow fruit, veggies and herbs at home," she said.

"Everything is so dry, and trees and plants are dying."

Melanie also found it harder to buy fresh produce.

"Fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood is very expensive now, the quality of fresh fruit and vegetables has decreased, and food doesn't stay fresh for as long."

Community voices like Melanie's tell us how residents and business owners in Brisbane feel about their local climate. If you would like to contribute your voice to our column, you can fill out our 5-minute survey here.

Did you know?

On warm nights many of us will switch on our fans and air conditioners to keep cool.

According to Canstar, a reverse cycle air conditioner typically costs 60 cents an hour to run.

This means using your air conditioner four hours a day through the summer months can increase your power bill by $200 or more.

Both ceiling and portable fans cost between two cents and five cents an hour to run.

Dr Christa Pudmenzky is a climate scientist at the University of Southern Queensland.

This column is part of a collaboration between Monash University and News Corp to deliver hyperlocal weather and climate information.

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