South-East States Brace for Decades’ Worst Heatwave, Nearing 50°C
The south-east region of Australia is poised to experience one of its most severe heatwaves on record, with temperatures nearing 50°C. This intense heatwave is expected to last an unprecedented seven to eight days, bringing extreme fire danger alongside high temperatures across multiple states.
Record Temperatures and Duration
This event marks the longest stretch of consecutive temperatures above 40°C for some areas since the 1930s in New South Wales. Coastal areas will face shorter bursts of high heat, but inland regions are projected to endure temperatures well above average.
- Monday Records:
- 49.5°C at Ceduna – hottest day on record.
- 48.6°C at Wudinna – hottest day on record.
- 47.3°C at Trangie – hottest day since 1932.
- 46.1°C at Dubbo – equal hottest day on record.
- Projected Tuesday Temperatures:
- 49°C at Mildura – potential new Victorian record.
- 48°C at Swan Hill – hottest day on record.
- 45°C at Melbourne – hottest day since 2009.
- 48°C at Ivanhoe, NSW – hottest day since 2004.
- 48°C at Renmark, SA – close to record high.
Weather Patterns Contributing to the Heatwave
The heatwave’s unprecedented nature is largely attributed to a high-pressure system sitting over New South Wales. This atmospheric condition compresses air, causing rapid warming at the surface, which has enabled the heat dome to last for several days.
Fire Danger Risks
Due to soaring temperatures and extremely low humidity, fire risks have escalated, despite the absence of wind warnings. Gusty winds are expected on Tuesday, which could elevate the danger level further across southern Australia.
- Fire danger is rated as extreme on Tuesday across much of southern Australia.
- Wind speeds may gust up to 70 km/h in South Australia and western Victoria.
Ongoing Heat and Future Forecasts
Cooler air will not significantly diminish the heatwave until the weekend, leading to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. The inland regions of South Australia and northern Victoria are anticipated to see consecutive days of extreme heat, mirroring conditions not experienced since the Black Summer.
Specific areas such as Wagga Wagga and Albury in the eastern Riverina might experience the longest run of days at or above 40°C since 1939, signaling a dramatic heat event for the residents.
Heat Distribution Shift
As the week progresses, the hottest air is expected to shift location, moving across different regions:
- Wednesday: Northern and north-west NSW.
- Thursday: North-east South Australia.
- Friday: Western South Australia.
This week of extreme heat serves as a stark reminder of the impact of climate variability on weather patterns, prompting the need for readiness and precaution amidst rising temperatures.
