Temperature Ranges in Australia's Great Sandy & Great Victoria Deserts

Clarifying Two Distinct Deserts

There is no single "Great Victoria Desert"—Australia has both the Great Sandy Desert and the Great Victoria Desert, each with distinct climate profiles.

Great Sandy Desert (Northwest WA)

• Summer: 35–40°C (95–104°F)
• Winter: 18–23°C (64–73°F)

Great Victoria Desert (WA/SA border)

• Summer: 30–35°C (86–95°F)
• Winter: 15–20°C (59–68°F)

Key Differences

The Great Sandy Desert is hotter due to lower latitude and less cloud cover. The Great Victoria Desert's slightly milder temperatures reflect its more southerly position and occasional southern frontal systems. Both experience extreme diurnal ranges and very low, unpredictable rainfall.