Millions of Australians are preparing for an intense and extended heatwave that is forecast to sweep across vast sections of the nation's eastern and southern coastlines during the Australia Day long weekend. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings that temperatures are set to rise sharply in South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and southern Queensland starting from Friday, with some regions likely to see existing records shattered.
Prolonged and Severe Conditions
Coastal areas can expect temperatures ranging from the high 30s to low 40s degrees Celsius, while inland regions will experience even more severe heat, soaring above the mid-40s and potentially approaching 50C. Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Jonathan Howe highlighted the unusual duration of this event, stating, 'Heatwaves are part of the Australian summer, but what makes this one stand out a bit more is just how prolonged it will be.' He added, 'We're talking, for many inland parts, five to seven days in which temperatures will be in the low to mid 40s, with very little relief overnight.'
Record-Breaking Temperatures Expected
The extreme weather is attributed to heat that has accumulated over Western Australia in recent weeks, lacking significant weather systems like monsoons to disperse it. This built-up heat is now being driven across the eastern states. New temperature records for January, or possibly for the entire year, could be established in parts of northern Victoria, western New South Wales, and southern Queensland.
Specific forecasts for major cities include:
- Adelaide: Peaking at 42C on Saturday, with a potential high of 43C on the public holiday Monday.
- Melbourne: Reaching 40C on Friday, with a slight cooldown over the weekend before a 41C blast on Tuesday, affecting events like the Australian Open.
- Sydney: Western suburbs hitting over 40C on Sunday, while coastal areas remain in the mid-30s.
Critical Fire Danger Warnings Issued
The combination of extreme heat and wind has prompted a series of fire danger warnings across four states. Meteorologist Christie Johnson warned, 'Most of SA is expecting high to extreme fire danger and the Yorke Peninsula is also currently forecasting catastrophic fire danger.' She explained that under such conditions, any fires that ignite would be nearly impossible to control. Pockets of extreme fire danger are also anticipated for north-eastern Victoria and into New South Wales, including the ACT, over the long weekend.
Health and Infrastructure Concerns
Authorities have urged the public to take precautions, as the persistent heat is expected to make sleeping and staying cool difficult, which can significantly strain the body. Johnson noted, 'We also expect to see stress on power and infrastructure from both the heat and also the risk of fire over coming days.' The heatwave is forecast to linger until at least early next week, with inland areas like Bourke in NSW potentially reaching 48C or even 49C.
Residents in affected regions are advised to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat, and follow local emergency services' guidance regarding fire safety and heat-related health risks.
