Long-term data suggests Springfield's autumn days are warming
Dr Christa Pudmenzky discusses Springfield's warming autumn days. Plus, how do rising temperatures impact Brisbane's koalas?
As we move through autumn, Springfield residents can expect warmer daytime temperatures.
Back in the 1970s, a typical autumn day was around 27 degrees.
Nowadays, it's almost one degree warmer.
This may not seem like much, but small changes in the climate can affect the health of our native wildlife.
Voices from your community
Boronia Heights resident Julie Jacobs noticed summer temperatures extending well into March.
"Summer seems so much longer," she said.
"I remember when the seasons were clear but now it's really hard to tell... autumn and spring feel as though they are cut short.
"Animals are regularly seeking refuge under our house to get out of the heat."
Community voices like Julie's 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.
Fast fact
Koalas are picky when it comes to their diet - only eating from specific types of eucalyptus trees.
Slight increases in temperature can impact these eucalypts' ability to produce healthy gum leaves, leaving koalas without the water and nutrients they need to thrive.
As a result, our furry friends may begin to look for food in new areas, making them vulnerable to predators and at risk when crossing roads
Want more information on how your climate is changing? Check out last week's article here.
Dr Christa Pudmenzky is a climate scientist at the University of Southern Queensland.
This column is part of a collaboration between the Monash Climate Change Communication Research Hub and News Corp to deliver hyperlocal weather and climate information.
Follow the Hub on Twitter to join the conversation.
