The new Bureau of Meteorology website was launched last Wednesday, 22 October, and has caused some complaints on social media about its ease of use, with the question raised asking Why did it have to change?

Acting CEO Dr Peter Stone said forecasts, warnings and public safety information have not been compromised by the roll-out of the new website.

"I acknowledge the concerns raised by the community and recognise the significance of the change.

"We didn't make the change lightly, and we appreciate that it will take time for some to adjust. I sincerely apologise for the challenges the change has caused.

"It’s clear we need to do more to help people through the change, both by making adjustments to the website and by helping users to understand its new features,” Dr Stone said.

The Bureau said that its website hadn’t changed in over a decade. It receives millions of daily visitors as people rely on the website and the BOM Weather app to help plan ahead.

"The safety of Australians is our primary concern. We want to reiterate that observations, forecasts, warnings and severe weather updates continue to be readily available on our website, the app and our social media channels,” he said.

“The new site has been specifically designed to enhance access to public safety information. The Bureau's forecasts and warnings are now more prominent, easily accessible and relevant to your location.

“There has been significant feedback about the radar on the new website. It’s important to note that the website radar provides one view of the current weather situation. It is not intended to replicate or replace the Bureau's weather warnings, which are created by our expert meteorologists and issued ahead of a severe weather event,” he said.

“We are listening and welcome your feedback on the new site – it's part of delivering a reliable service that every sector of the community can trust and rely on.

“We are moving quickly to act on the feedback received, and I am confident the community will start to see more improvements in the coming weeks,” he said.

New content, features and upgrades will continue to be rolled out through regular releases, based on feedback.

If you have some feedback to pass on to the BoM, you can do so via:

• On-page: Customers can submit anonymous feedback using the feedback pop-up window or the 'Was this page useful' button at the bottom of every page.
• Contact form: Customers can submit feedback and enquiries on the new website's contact form.
• Phone line: Customers can call 1300 754 389 for website help (operating hours 8am-6pm AEDT weekdays).

The BoM continues to work closely with emergency management agencies at all levels in preparation for the severe weather season and will continue to support the community by providing resources via the news and media section on the website and social media channels.

For more information and tips for using the new Bureau website, go to Website help | The Bureau of Meteorology