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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Coast Brief Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Check the live radar above to see where rain is moving across Launceston and the Tamar Valley now, then scan the 10-day outlook to plan ahead.
What does the Launceston weather radar show?
The Mount Barrow radar (station ID 127) is the primary tool for tracking showers and storms across northern Tasmania. It covers Launceston, the Tamar Valley, and most of the North-East, with a range of 256 kilometres. The live radar above updates every 10 minutes, so you can see whether that band of rain is heading for your suburb or will stay over the hills.
How to read the radar for Launceston
Launceston sits in a rain shadow east of the Western Tiers, so the radar often shows light patchy showers rather than heavy bands. Look for green and yellow echoes moving from the west or north-west—those are the typical rain-bearing directions for this region. If you see blue or purple returns, that is usually heavy rain or hail.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Launceston radar show the whole of Tasmania?
No. The Mount Barrow radar covers the north and north-east only. For the south, use the Hobart radar (Mount Koonya). For a full picture, combine both at the Australia weather hub.
Why does the radar sometimes show nothing in Launceston?
Clear skies or very light drizzle may not register. The radar is tuned for moderate to heavy rain. If the screen looks blank, check the 10-day forecast for actual cloud cover.
Can I use the radar for bushfire smoke?
No. The Mount Barrow radar is designed for rain and hail. Smoke plumes can show up as false echoes. For fire warnings, use the Bureau of Meteorology’s dedicated fire-weather page.