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BOM’s New Weather Site Draws Widespread Backlash During Severe Weather

Users dependent on live radar or wind readings say the redesign buries vital details.

Overview

  • The Bureau launched the site this week touting simpler language, easier navigation and customisation features.
  • The agency says forecasts and warnings are unchanged and that all previous data remains accessible after user testing.
  • Farmers and fishers report difficulty finding real-time metrics such as wind speed and direction and say usability has worsened.
  • The rollout coincided with severe conditions across several states, intensifying complaints and media criticism including on 3AW.
  • The Bureau is encouraging feedback and expects satisfaction to recover as people adjust, citing a similar pattern after its 2020 app relaunch.