A severe heatwave sweeping across south-eastern Australia has been described by meteorologists as one of the most significant on record, with temperatures soaring above 50°C in some areas and breaking numerous records.
The opal mining town of Andamooka in South Australia reached 50°C on Thursday, marking only the eighth time such a temperature has been recorded in Australia. Victoria set a state record of 48.9°C in Hopetoun and Walpeup, while Pooncarie in New South Wales hit 49.7°C, tying the second highest temperature ever recorded in the state.
In the Australian Alps, where January temperatures typically average 18°C, Falls Creek and Perisher Valley recorded 30.5°C and 30.8°C respectively—both all-time highs. Bureau of Meteorology senior climatologist Dr Simon Grainger noted that these temperatures were higher than those in Melbourne and Sydney on the same day.
Overnight temperatures have offered little relief. Adelaide experienced its hottest night on record, with temperatures dropping only to 34.1°C after a day of 44.7°C. Dozens of inland towns have faced five or more consecutive days above 40°C, with some enduring three days above 48°C—a first for New South Wales.
Health experts warn of the dangers of prolonged heat. Dr Caroline McElnay, Victoria's chief health officer, said extreme overnight heat can prevent the body from cooling down, increasing the risk of heat stress. Associate Professor Mark Putland, director of emergency medicine at Royal Melbourne Hospital, added that the lack of nighttime relief wears down people's reserves, making conditions hard to bear.
The heatwave, caused by a 'dome of heat' trapped by a blocking high in the Tasman Sea and remnants of ex-tropical cyclone Luana, is comparable to the severe heatwaves of January 2009 and January 1939. About 50 weather stations have recorded their highest temperatures during this event.
