The prevailing westerly airstream leads to a West Coast and highlands that are cool, wet and cloudy and an East Coast and lowlands that are milder, drier and sunnier. Annual rainfall varies markedly across the state, averaging less than 600 mm in the Midlands but over 3500 mm in some part of the mountainous west. Though droughts have not plagued Tasmania to the same degree or severity as the mainland states of Australia, some have had serious consequences. Summers are usually mild, with any hot periods rarely lasting more than a few days. In elevated regions the temperatures are about 5 o C lower.
Westerly winds are particularly strong and persistent in late winter and early spring.
Afternoon sea breezes are predominant in most areas in the summer months. Climate data is available in a range of formats to suit particular needs. Contact the Bureau in your State if you require further information. For Year Yearly Average 8. OR -on the Internet.