Weather to hold off for Grand Final blockbuster, parade to be hit by rain

The forecast is looking promising for AFL Grand Final day, and that could prove to be a nice omen for Richmond supporters. But not all footy festivities will be dry this long weekend. Here’s what to expect.

A dry day is in store for footy fans at the MCG on Grand Final day. File image: Mark Stewart

Footy fans are in luck with the weather forecast shaping up for a mostly fine weekend as Richmond take on GWS at the MCG.

The dry conditions could prove to be a handy omen in the Tigers’ quest for a 12th premiership.

The Bureau of Meterology have dived into the record books, revealing that all of Richmond’s flags, apart from one, have been won when the rain stays away.

“Richmond have won 11 premierships and in only one of those were weather conditions wet so 10 out of 11 premierships for the Tigers were played in dry conditions,” BOM senior forecaster Michael Efron said.

It is the Richmond’s 23rd appearance in a grand final, while the Giants, in their eighth season, are making their debut on the big stage.

It will reach a cloudy high of 16C on Saturday, slightly below the average for VFL/AFL grand finals, but still warmer than the 14C day for last year’s epic between Collingwood and West Coast.

The wettest grand final came back in 1927 when the Magpies won the first of its four straight premierships, defeating Richmond 2.13 (25) to 1.7 (13).

But you don’t have to go back too far to find the warmest decider.

In 2015, Hawthorn smashed West Coast by 46 points as the Hawks claimed a third consecutive flag.

Those taking to the streets for the annual Grand Final parade on Friday are being warned to pack an umbrella with the heavens set to open throughout the day.

Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Richard Carlyon said diehard fans can expect a few showers during the public holiday parade.

Diehard fans should bring a poncho to Friday’s Grand Final parade. Picture: Mark Stewart

“It’ll be a little bit different on Friday for the parade — some showers expected to develop around midday,” he said.

“A top of 17C with showers developing mid Friday … and northerly winds moving in across the afternoon.”

But in true Melbourne fashion, it should be all clear at the ’G on Saturday.

”It should dry up for (the) Grand Final,” Mr Carlyon said.

“It will be a cold start to Grand Final day with an early morning temperature of 6C.

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“At least it’s a dry day but definitely take a few layers if you’re heading to the game.”

The AFL Grand Final will kick off at 2.30pm on Saturday.

Sunday will be mostly fine, with possible showers, and a top of 16C.

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