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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Aussie Report Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Satellite weather maps of Australia show real-time cloud cover, cyclones, storms and bushfire smoke across the continent, updated every 10 minutes by the Bureau of Meteorology. The live radar above overlays rain intensity on those satellite images for a complete picture of today’s weather.
What does the satellite weather map show right now?
The bom radar australia live feed combines visible and infrared satellite imagery with ground-based radar returns. On an australia satellite map live you can see the movement of troughs, cold fronts and tropical lows – for example, a line of showers along the east coast or a dry slot over the interior. The best live weather satellite australia source is the Bureau’s Himawari-9 satellite, which delivers 500-metre resolution images covering the entire country and surrounding oceans.
How do I read a satellite weather map?
White and grey patches indicate thick cloud; darker areas are clearer skies. Infrared channels show cloud-top temperature – colder (higher) clouds often mean heavier rain or storms. On the bom satellite images australia loop, watch for rapidly developing cumulonimbus towers: those often trigger severe thunderstorm warnings. For bushfire seasons, the satellite also picks up heat signatures (fire hotspots) shown as red or orange pixels.
Can I see real-time satellite images of Australia for free?
Yes. The Bureau of Meteorology provides free real time satellite images australia free via its website and app. Third-party sites also embed the same Himawari-9 data, but the BOM source is the most reliable.
Is there a live satellite map on Google Maps for Australia?
Google Maps does not offer a dedicated satellite weather layer. However, you can use australia satellite map live google maps by enabling the “Clouds” overlay in Google Earth Pro – it uses the same Himawari-9 data with a slight delay.
How accurate is the BOM satellite radar?
The satellite radar pairs geostationary imagery with Doppler radar for rain rates. Satellite alone sees only cloud top, not surface rain, so merging it with australia satellite weather live radar data gives near-real-time accuracy to about 1 km.
For state-by-state forecasts, check our Australia weather hub or dive into Melbourne Weather and Sydney Weather. If you see intense thunderstorms or cyclones on the satellite, also visit the Severe Weather Warning page.