Canberrans who were sick of the sweltering heat may have found themselves hugging the doona on Tuesday morning, thinking they should be careful what they wish for.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The city recorded its coldest February night on record, with the mercury dropping to a brisk 2.8 degrees slightly before 7am.
Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Gabrielle Woodhouse said the previous record was 3.2 degrees, made back on February 28, 1985.
"It was much cooler than the February's average minimum," Ms Woodhouse said.
"While it would have been cold for some, it would have come as a relief to others after such hot weather across the state."
The fall in temperature was due to a fairly significant front that came over the ACT and NSW over the weekend, Ms Woodhouse said.
"Behind that front we had some dry air which can bring cooler temperatures at night with clear skies," she said.
Although Canberrans could be forgiven for thinking summer is over after the cold shock, they'll unlikely hold that view for long.
After a sunny forecast top of 27 degrees on Tuesday, maximum temperatures will climb back up to the thirties until the weekend.
The Bureau forecast a top of 33 on Wednesday, 36 on Thursday and 32 on Friday, with a possible shower or thunderstorm in the afternoon or evening.
And you'll unlikely need to wrap yourself in as many blankets as Monday night - at least for the rest of the week.
"While last night was cold, we will have a more mild night tonight [Tuesday], with the temperature hanging around that 12 to 14 degree mark," Ms Woodhouse said.
"From what we can see, it will be that way at least for the next few nights."
