Millions of Australians are bracing for a week of dangerous and extreme weather conditions, as the nation faces a dual threat from a scorching heatwave in the south and a potential tropical cyclone in the north.
Southern States Set to Sizzle in Intense Heatwave
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe heat warnings for large parts of southern Australia, with temperatures forecast to soar above 40 degrees Celsius from Wednesday. Senior Meteorologist Angus Hines told Sunrise on Tuesday that Victoria and South Australia would bear the initial brunt.
"Tomorrow is going to be an extremely hot day across Victoria and South Australia," Hines warned, noting that both Adelaide and Melbourne are expected to exceed 40C on Wednesday.
The most intense heat is predicted for the Murray River region, encompassing parts of southern New South Wales, northern Victoria, and eastern South Australia. This area could endure three consecutive days with temperatures around a staggering 45 to 46 degrees Celsius.
Residents in Sydney and Canberra are likely to face their hottest conditions later in the week, on Friday and Saturday, before temperatures begin to ease by Sunday.
North Queensland on Cyclone Watch
While the south swelters, North Queensland is on high alert for a different kind of severe weather. The Bureau is monitoring a tropical low developing in the Coral Sea, which has a moderate chance of intensifying into a tropical cyclone by Friday or Saturday.
"A tropical low-pressure system is kind of like a weak tropical cyclone," explained Hines. "If that system continues to strengthen, it will turn into a tropical cyclone."
The system is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the Cape York Peninsula initially, with the potential to affect communities from Cairns to Mackay over the weekend. Hines urged vigilance for residents from Rockhampton northwards, stating, "It’s got the potential to be a really impactful one with a whole lot of rain. Its high-end risk is definitely there."
This comes as the region continues to recover from recent flooding, adding to the community's vulnerability.
Nation Urged to Prepare and Stay Vigilant
This week's extreme weather events mark a severe start to the year's dangerous weather season. Authorities are advising all Australians to take the warnings seriously.
Key advice for those in heatwave-affected areas includes:
- Staying hydrated and out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day.
- Checking on elderly neighbours, young children, and pets.
- Being aware of the heightened fire danger that accompanies extreme heat.
For North Queensland communities, the message is to closely follow official updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and local emergency services, and to begin preparing their properties for potential heavy rain and cyclonic winds.
With both a severe heatwave and a potential cyclone unfolding, the Bureau of Meteorology and emergency services stress the importance of heeding official warnings and having a plan in place to stay safe.
