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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Australia Voice Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s Darwin radar (Berrimah) provides live, 512-kilometre and 256-kilometre loops of rain and storms across the Top End. The live radar above updates every six minutes, showing approaching wet-season downpours, dry-season showers, or tropical cyclone activity.
How do I read the Darwin radar and what does the loop show?
The Darwin 512km bom radar loop covers from the Timor Sea to Katherine, while the 256km zoom sharpens focus on Darwin city, Palmerston, and rural areas. Colours on the bom weather radar darwin live loop range from light blue (drizzle) through green and yellow (moderate rain) to red and pink (heavy rain or hail). Use the loop to track movement—northwest monsoon flows bring rain from the sea, while southeast trade winds push showers inland.
When is the best time to check the Darwin radar?
Check the bom darwin rain radar live during the wet season (November to April) for daily afternoon storms and potential cyclone warnings. In the dry season (May to October), the radar mainly shows patchy coastal drizzle or clear skies. For severe weather, pair the radar with severe weather warnings from the Bureau.
Does the Darwin radar show cyclones?
Yes, the bom weather radar darwin loop detects rain bands and the eye of tropical cyclones within 512 km. The Bureau issues separate cyclone warnings; the radar helps you track movement and intensity.
Why is the radar sometimes blank or offline?
Radar maintenance or technical faults cause brief outages. Check the Bureau’s radar status page or switch to the Australia Weather hub for alternative radar sites like Warruwi or Gove.
Can I use the radar for boating or fishing?
Yes, the bom darwin radar loop 256 is useful for coastal conditions. Combine it with marine wind warnings. The 512 km loop shows squalls approaching from the Timor Sea or Arafura Sea.