Millions of Aussies were told to brace for a soaking—but it’s not just a passing shower.

A weather system described as one of the largest in years had experts sounding the alarm.

And it was set to sweep across nearly every inch of the country within days.

More than 80 per cent of Australia faced widespread rain over the weekend as a massive rainband pushed across the nation.

Triggered by a collision between a low-pressure system and a surge of tropical moisture, the downpour had the potential to bring up to 60mm of rain to parts of southern and eastern Australia.

Millions of residents across every state and territory were in the firing line, with Sydney forecast to receive 5mm on both 25 and 26 July.

Massive rainband drenches most of Australia. Image source: Pexels/Mehmood Yousafzai
Disclaimer: This is a stock image used for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual person, item, or event described.

Brisbane was expected to be hit with a heavier fall, with up to 20mm predicted from a late Saturday shower.

While the weekend weather threatened to dampen some plans, the rainfall was seen as a much-needed reprieve for areas enduring prolonged dry spells.

Southern regions of Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria had experienced their lowest rainfall on record—some going more than two years without significant precipitation.

According to Weatherzone, although this event wouldn’t fully recover the long-term rainfall deficit, many drought-affected communities were set to receive their best falls in years.

Experts warned the wet weather pattern was likely to continue into the following week, bringing further showers to already saturated areas.

The latest seven-day precipitation maps painted a dramatic picture, showing just how far-reaching the rain would be.

While this weekend's rain offers long-awaited relief for many dry regions, it's only part of a much bigger story.

Some communities have already been pushed to the brink, with years of drought leaving families without one of life’s most basic essentials—water.

It’s a stark reminder of how serious the situation has become, even before the first raindrops hit the ground.

Read more: Farmer issues warning as drought leaves families without water

Key Takeaways

• More than 80 per cent of Australia faced weekend rain from a massive weather system.
• The downpour stemmed from a low-pressure system colliding with tropical moisture.
• Southern WA, SA and Victoria were among the hardest-hit drought areas receiving relief.
• Further rain was expected into the following week across multiple states.

What would a soaking like this mean for the drought-stricken towns that have waited years for relief?

 

[Beany]

I am hoping the rains will fill the Reservoirs and give farmers much needed rain, the only downside is if it causes the soil to wash a way with the seeds for their next crop, rain is brilliant a delouse is however a cause for concern.