The Ekka has kicked off under sunny skies in Brisbane, but in typical form the infamous westerlies are also blowing into town. Revellers attending the first day of Brisbane's Ekka will be pleased to see the sun shining today. But while an expected top of 24 degrees might tempt some to step out in a t-shirt, a jumper will still be needed thanks to dry and gusty westerly winds. A low pressure trough associated with a low near the NSW coast, is causing west to southwesterly winds to become fresh and gusty this morning. Wind gusts to 40-50km/h will make it it chilly at times, particularly for those sitting in the shade. The dry winds will also combine with a cool airmass and clear skies to bring a cold night, with the mercury set to dip to about nine degrees. This will make Friday morning particularly nippy, with the westerlies bringing a wind chill and making it feel a couple of degrees cooler than it is. Brisbane is renowned for its westerly winds during August, which usually result from a belt of high pressure systems directing the westerly flow into the region. For many this time of year is also synonymous with the flu season, with some reluctant to venture out amongst the public at the Ekka. The good news is that the cool westerlies should ease by Saturday, with mostly sunny days allowing it to warm to the mid 20s until next Tuesday. From next Tuesday or Wednesday's public holiday, winds should start to blow on onshore, bringing the chance of a shower each day for the remainder of the show.