Overcast Skies and Late-Night Sprinkles: A Cooler Friday Ahead for Sydney

A Gray Start to the Weekend

Sydney residents should prepare for a notable shift in conditions this Friday, 13 February 2026. Following a stretch of typical summer heat, the city is expected to be blanketed by persistent cloud cover for the duration of the day. While the intense temperatures of early February have temporarily abated, the humidity remains a key factor for those commuting across the CBD and the surrounding metropolitan areas. The overall outlook suggests a mild but gloomy day, perfect for indoor activities but less ideal for those hoping for a classic beach day.

Morning Forecast: Humid and Overcast

The day will begin with temperatures hovering between 19°C and 20°C. Cloud cover will be thick from the early hours, significantly limiting the visibility of the sunrise, which is scheduled for approximately 5:28 AM. Humidity levels are expected to be relatively high, reaching up to 64%, creating a damp and heavy feel to the air even in the absence of immediate rain. Light south-westerly winds of approximately 11 km/h will provide a subtle cross-breeze, though they will do little to break up the overcast sky. Commuters are advised to prepare for a gray morning transit, as the atmosphere will remain heavy throughout the early hours.

Afternoon Outlook: Stable Temperatures

Heading into the afternoon, the mercury is expected to climb slowly, reaching a forecast peak of 24°C. This is slightly cooler than the long-term February average of 26°C, offering a break from the usual summer swelter. The sky will remain stubbornly overcast, with about a 20% chance of isolated light showers, particularly in the coastal suburbs and the Eastern Suburbs. Despite the lack of direct sunlight, the UV Index is still forecast to reach an extreme level of 11. Residents should be aware that cloud cover does not provide complete protection from solar radiation, and standard sun protection measures remain essential during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Evening and Night: Late Showers Expected

As the city moves into the evening, temperatures will begin to dip back toward the overnight low of 19°C. The heavy cloud cover will persist, and the likelihood of precipitation increases as the night progresses. Light rain is predicted to move across the Sydney basin shortly after sunset, which is expected at 7:49 PM. Total rainfall for the 24-hour period is estimated at a modest 0.3 mm, meaning any moisture will likely manifest as a light drizzle rather than a disruptive downpour. While this shouldn't cancel Friday night plans, damp roads may require extra caution for those driving home late.

Weather Notices and Safety

• Wind: No significant wind or gale warnings are currently in place for the Sydney coastal waters or the metropolitan area.
• Rain: No flood or heavy rain alerts have been issued, with only minimal light showers expected late in the evening.
• UV Alert: An extreme UV index of 11 is anticipated; please ensure you use high-SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothing if spending time outdoors.