Rainfall variability in the Outback is among the highest in Australia, and average annual totals are amongst the lowest. In effect there is no real seasonality. The principle synoptic influences on rainfall are of tropical origin, taking the form of moist tropical airmass incursions, rain and monsoon depressions and thunderstorms. Even so, mid latitude influences together with frontal activities produce rain. In other words, the tail ends of tropical cyclones can come down from the north and deluge the country in summer, as can the tips of cold frontal systems from the south in winter. The northern half of South Australia lies on the northern or southern end of these systems, and therefore is the driest place in Australia. The driest recorded place in Australia is Mulka Station on the Birdsville Track, where rainfall is below 120mm per annum.
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