Understanding atmospheric circulation leading to anomalously high Australian spring maximum temperatures

Australian maximum temperatures in spring can be damaging, but drivers of extreme temperature have received less attention than spring rainfall. This thesis explores the atmospheric circulation patterns associated with high maximum temperature through spring using observations and seasonal forecast models. The heat-generating mechanisms were found to change through the spring months, with Australian maximum temperatures more related to tropical variability in later spring. The tropical Indian Ocean is important for setting up the atmospheric circulation associated with high temperatures. Forecast models need to simulate this region better to improve future Australian spring maximum temperature forecasts.