Moreton Bay's autumn temperatures have risen over time, according to long-term data records

Dr Christa Pudmenzky discusses Moreton Bay's warming autumn climate. Plus, how do rising temperatures impact our oceans?

Compared to 50 years ago, Moreton Bay experiences around 13 additional autumn nights reaching 20 degrees. Cape Moreton, 6 May 2021, Source: Monash University.

Data from the Bureau of Meteorology suggests Moreton Bay's overnight temperatures are warming.

The region experiences more than 46 nights in autumn reaching at least 20 degrees - 13 more than it did 50 years ago.

Small changes in our climate, like we're seeing around Moreton Bay, can impact ocean currents and wind patterns.

Did you know?

Excess heat caused by rising temperatures - like we see in Moreton Bay - is absorbed largely by our oceans.

In fact, since 2010, southeast Australia and Tasmania have experienced eight out of the 10 warmest years for sea-surface temperatures.

Ocean warming has all sorts of implications - it can cause sea-level rise, coral bleaching and coastal erosion.

Voices from your community

Resident Leigh Andrews noticed similar changes in Narranga's climate.

"The heat is stretching into the middle of the year and autumn seems to be starting later," she said.

"Our air conditioning is being run way too much - it is still needed throughout April.

"My plants need more care from me and local events are being cancelled when the heat gets too much."

Community voices like Leigh tell us how residents and business owners in southeast Queensland 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.

Want more information on how your climate is changing? Check out our most recent article here.

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.