Residents of southeastern Australia are bracing for a weekend of sweltering conditions as a severe heatwave descends upon the region. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), temperatures are set to soar up to 12°C above average across much of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and inland New South Wales.
Pockets of Severe Heatwave Conditions Expected
The BoM has warned that there will be pockets of severe heatwave conditions and widespread “low-intensity heatwaves” stretching from Adelaide to Melbourne and up into southern NSW and eastern Victoria. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines stated that a high-pressure area east of Tasmania is steering the hot conditions, blowing warm air into the southern parts of the country.
“There’s a really warm stretch of weather ahead for south-eastern Australia, with temperatures … as much as 10 or 12 degrees warmer than normal across large parts of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and southern New South Wales, starting on Thursday,” said Hines.
Melbourne to Swelter, Sydney Spared
Melbourne is expected to bear the brunt of the heatwave, with temperatures forecast to peak at 36°C on Friday and Saturday. The city’s overnight minimum on Friday is not expected to drop below a balmy 22°C. In contrast, Sydney looks set to escape the worst of the heat, with maximums of 25-27°C over the weekend and reaching 30°C early next week.
Elevated Fire Danger Amid Dry, Hot Conditions
The hot and dry weather will also bring an elevated fire risk, particularly in South Australia. Areas of the state’s west and center may experience Extreme Fire Danger on Friday as the mercury climbs to 40°C and beyond in some inland locations like Tarcoola and Oodnadatta.
“Friday, Saturday and Sunday we’ll start to see severe heatwave thresholds being reached for southeastern parts of country, and are likely to see severe heatwave warnings for east Gippsland, the South Coast, Snowy Mountains and southern parts of NSW,” Hines warned.
Relief on the Way
A cool change is expected to sweep through South Australia and Victoria early next week before pushing into NSW, bringing rain and milder conditions. This will provide much-needed relief from the searing heat gripping the southeast.
Queensland Facing Floods as NSW Swelters
Meanwhile, as NSW and Victoria endure the heatwave, parts of Queensland are grappling with the opposite problem. The town of Charleville in the state’s west has experienced its worst flooding in 14 years, with some areas receiving over 200mm of rain in the past week.
“We have already seen a number of swiftwater rescues right across south-east Queensland of people who are driving into flood waters,” said state disaster coordinator Shane Chelepy. “We lose more lives during a disaster season by the reckless behaviour of driving through water than we do from the disasters.”
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that rainfall totals of over 200mm and up to 300mm could hit communities between Serena and Eungella in central Queensland, bringing the risk of flash flooding.
Staying Safe in Extreme Weather
As the nation grapples with both heatwaves and floods, Australians are reminded to stay informed about local conditions, heed the advice of emergency services, and take precautions to stay safe. In hot weather, this includes:
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day
- Keeping cool by using fans or air conditioning if available
- Checking on elderly neighbors or those with health conditions
- Never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles
In flood-affected areas, residents should avoid entering floodwaters, be prepared to evacuate if advised, and ensure they have an emergency kit ready. By working together and staying vigilant, communities can weather these challenging conditions and emerge resilient on the other side.
