Home › Weather › Dorrigo Weather
Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Australia Data Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Check the live forecast above before you head up the mountain, as Dorrigo’s weather can shift quickly from clear to drizzly, especially in the afternoon. This guide gives you the essentials for planning your day around the plateau’s famously changeable conditions.
What makes Dorrigo’s weather so changeable?
Dorrigo sits at around 750 metres elevation on the Great Escarpment, which puts it right in the path of moist coastal air rising off the Pacific. This orographic lift creates frequent cloud and light rain, making the town noticeably cooler and wetter than nearby Bellingen below. The Bureau of Meteorology (the Dorrigo weather BOM station at the local airport) records a typical summer maximum around 25°C and a winter max near 16°C, but those figures can swing 5–10°C on any given day depending on cloud cover and wind direction.
How reliable is a 14-day forecast for Dorrigo?
A Dorrigo weather 14 day forecast gives a useful trend for temperature and rain chances, but specifics begin to blur after about a week. For a shorter window, look at the weather in Dorrigo 10 days out — it’s generally reliable enough to decide whether to pack a raincoat or just a light wool jumper. The plateau’s microclimate means the actual conditions you experience can differ from the broader coastal forecast, so always check the live radar for incoming shower bands from the east.
What about longer-range outlooks?
A Dorrigo weather 30 day forecast is more of a climate trend than a day-by-day prediction. It can tell you if the month is shaping up to be wetter or drier than average, but it won’t tell you which afternoon the mist will roll in. For day-trips, stick with the 7-day outlook and the severe weather warning page, especially if you’re planning to hike in Dorrigo National Park.
Does it rain a lot in Dorrigo?
Yes, Dorrigo receives roughly double the rainfall of Coffs Harbour, with around 150 rain days per year. Most rain comes as light drizzle or showers, not heavy downpours, making the town lush and green year-round.
What’s the best time to visit Dorrigo for clear weather?
Late autumn and early spring (April–May and September–October) often bring the most settled conditions. Summer afternoons tend to be cloudier and wetter, while winter mornings can be crisp and foggy before clearing by midday.
Can I get a reliable Dorrigo weather radar feed?
The BOM’s Grafton radar provides reasonable coverage for the plateau, though mountainous terrain can obscure some low-level showers. For the best live picture, combine the radar with the local BOM forecast — you’ll often see the rain band develop just east of the range.