Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Southern Focus Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
The Northern Territory’s tropical climate brings a hot, humid wet season from November to April and a milder dry season from May to October. The live forecast above shows the latest conditions across the region.
What drives the NT weather pattern?
The Territory’s weather is shaped by the monsoon trough and inland heating, producing distinct seasonal shifts.
- Wet season (Nov–Apr): Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and high humidity, especially in the Top End.
- Dry season (May–Oct): Sunny days, cool nights, low humidity — ideal for travel.
- Central Australia (Alice Springs) is semi‑arid with extreme temperature swings, often above 40°C in summer.
- Coastal Darwin stays warm year‑round, averaging 30–33°C, with the wet season delivering 1,500–2,000 mm of rain.
How to monitor NT weather in real time
For up‑to‑the‑minute information, the Bureau of Meteorology offers free tools including nt weather radar and satellite loops.
- nt weather radar: Track storms, showers, and cyclones as they move across the Top End.
- nt weather satellite: View cloud patterns and monsoon development with live satellite imagery.
- northern territory weather map: Check synoptic charts for pressure systems and fronts.
- nt weather forecast 7 days: Daily outlooks for Darwin, Alice Springs, Katherine and beyond.
- nt weather 14 day forecast: Extended trend for planning trips or farm operations.
Stay informed with official warnings on our severe weather warning page and explore broader Australian conditions on the Australia weather hub.
When is the best time to visit the Northern Territory?
The dry season (May–October) offers comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring national parks and the Top End. For current conditions, see the weather in northern territory today above.
Does the Northern Territory get cyclones?
Yes, the Top End experiences tropical cyclones between November and April. Check the Bureau’s severe weather warnings and the nt weather satellite tracker live for updates.
What is the build‑up?
The build‑up (October–December) is the transition before the wet season, with high humidity, afternoon storms, and temperatures above 35°C in many areas.