Strong winds currently affecting eastern Australia are being exacerbated by climate change, which is impacting jet streams.

Notably, the sub-tropical and polar jet streams have merged over southeastern Australia, leading to a mix of weather patterns.

This unusual merging has resulted in a cold front impacting Victoria and southern New South Wales, while hot air has surged into Sydney.

The combination of these jet streams is particularly unusual for this time of year, as such events typically occur during the summer months over the Southern Ocean.

Recent research indicates that melting sea ice in Antarctica and marine heatwaves are influencing the positioning of these jet streams.

A 2023 study suggests that as global temperatures rise, upper-level jet stream winds are expected to accelerate by 2 percent for each degree of warming.

Dr. Martin Jucker from the University of NSW emphasized that the polar jet has a stronger influence on surface winds compared to the sub-tropical jet.

Dr. Milton Speer, a researcher at the University of Technology Sydney, highlighted the critical role of jet streams in shaping current weather conditions.

Jucker likened the behavior of jet streams to a water hose under increased pressure, illustrating their heightened variability.

Jet streams are powerful winds located about 10 kilometers above the Earth's surface, capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 kilometers an hour.

Overall, climate change is leading to a southward shift in jet streams, which may prolong heatwaves and dry spells across Australia.