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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Southern Pulse Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Check the live forecast above to see today’s icons at a glance; each symbol is a quick visual shorthand for the expected conditions, so you can plan your day without reading a full report.
What do the common weather icons actually mean?
Weather icons are standardised symbols used by the Bureau of Meteorology and most weather apps to represent sky cover, precipitation type and intensity. A sun icon means mostly clear skies; a sun behind a cloud indicates partly cloudy; a cloud with rain drops signals showers; and a lightning bolt warns of thunderstorms. The practical takeaway: icons are designed for instant recognition, but always pair them with the temperature and wind details in the live forecast above for a complete picture.
How are weather icons different on phones versus websites?
On iPhones and Android devices, weather icons are often simplified into small, coloured graphics (like a blue raindrop or yellow sun) to fit a widget. Websites and apps like Google Weather use more detailed SVG or PNG icons that show cloud layers and rain streaks. The key difference is resolution: phone icons are optimised for small screens, while web icons can include more nuance, such as a partly cloudy icon with a 30% rain chance indicator. For the most accurate reading, always check the text description that accompanies the icon.
Why do weather icons sometimes show a sun and rain together?
This icon means scattered showers with sunny breaks — common in Australian spring and summer. It indicates that rain is likely but not constant, so you should carry an umbrella but expect dry periods.
Are weather icons the same across all apps?
No, each platform uses its own design set. Google, Apple and the Bureau of Meteorology all have slightly different icons for the same condition, but the core meaning (sun, cloud, rain, snow) is consistent. Always check the legend in your app.
Can I download free weather icon packs?
Yes, many sites offer free weather icons in PNG or SVG format for personal or commercial use. Search for “weather icons free” or “weather icons pack” to find sets that match your design needs.
Sources
For more detail on interpreting these symbols in your city, see our Australia weather hub or check the Melbourne Weather page for local icon meanings.