Melbourne Heatwave to Hit 45°C, Most Severe Since Black Saturday
A severe heatwave is set to impact Victoria, with temperatures in Melbourne predicted to soar up to 45°C. This weather event marks the most intense heatwave since the infamous Black Saturday in 2009, when the region recorded a staggering 46.4°C. Parts of northwestern Victoria may experience even higher temperatures, potentially reaching an alarming 49°C.
Locations Facing Record Temperatures
The extreme heat will particularly affect the Mallee region, which includes the city of Mildura and the town of Ouyen. These areas previously recorded a maximum temperature of 47°C, and now face the possibility of surpassing this mark.
Emergency Responses Activated
- Ambulance Victoria has activated its emergency operations to address potential health crises due to the heat.
- Residents are cautioned to reserve emergency calls for critical situations, using alternative services instead.
- Powercor, the electricity distributor for Melbourne and its western regions, has increased crew availability in anticipation of power outages caused by overloaded electrical grids.
Fire Safety Precautions
In light of the dangerous conditions, a total fire ban has been initiated across Victoria. The Country Fire Authority has warned of “extreme” fire danger levels in the western, south-western, and central districts. Evacuation notices have been issued for communities at risk, particularly south of Colac and north of the Great Ocean Road.
Over 1,000 homes in the Otways have been checked for safety amid ongoing dangerous fires, including the growing Carlisle River blaze. As of Monday, this fire had expanded to over 9,000 hectares and is considered a significant threat. The emergency services are actively engaged in firefighting efforts, with 12 aircraft and 300 firefighters deployed.
Impact on Daily Life
Melbourne is expected to cool down in the late evening following this day of extreme heat, with a drop in temperature to about 24°C forecast for Wednesday. However, this change may also bring increased bushfire smoke into the city.
Additionally, disruptions in transportation are anticipated due to the intense heat, with train services affected. Metro services will operate at reduced speeds to ensure safety as track temperatures rise dangerously high.
Weather Forecast Ahead
This upcoming heatwave may last until the weekend, with temperatures in the high-30s to low-40s expected across northern Victoria. Unfortunately, minimal rainfall is predicted, complicating firefighting efforts. Meteorologists are closely monitoring weather conditions, including the potential for dry thunderstorms.
Victoria recently recorded distressing statistics, with over 1,000 properties damaged this summer due to bushfires, including 289 homes lost. These forecasted weather extremes heighten the risks for both public safety and ongoing fire management in the region.
