Weather Bureau updates unpopular $96.5m website

THE Bureau of Meteorology has implemented the first round of changes to its heavily-criticised $96.5m website.

Since launching, the site has attracted 400,000 “items of feedback”.

As a result, the rain radar and weather map have been improved and there is more information about daily temperature highs and lows on state, territory and district pages.

The update also includes refinements to warnings and other public safety information.

Bureau of Meteorology CEO Dr Stuart Minchin says some of the improvements were planned while others are a direct response to the complaints.

“We’ve heard a significant amount of feedback about the new rain radar and weather map.

“In response to that feedback, we have added a quick link button from the homepage, increased the visibility of the map location pin, and made it easier to customise the map.”

Changes have also been made to help users understand warning status and details, making it easier to see at a glance if a location has an active or recently cancelled warning.

Warning icons will display as yellow for active warnings and grey for cancelled.

Format changes to warning details will help with clarity, accessibility and consistency.

Dr Minchin says these updates follow recent changes to the weather map’s default rain view and fire forecast information.

“Website development and improvements are guided by user feedback, analysis, user research and business needs,” he said.

“We have an expert and highly dedicated workforce committed to providing the best possible service to the Australian community every day.

“We will continue to support the community to use the new website and make the most of its features through video tutorials, website help and troubleshooting.”

More updates are planned in the new year and are subject to severe weather conditions.

For more information and tips for using the new Bureau website, go to bom.gov.au/website-help.