Perth residents are being urged to prepare for a blistering and potentially dangerous Christmas Day, with the Bureau of Meteorology now forecasting a scorching maximum of 41 degrees Celsius.
A Rapidly Escalating Forecast
The prediction marks a dramatic escalation from earlier outlooks. Just weeks ago, a mild 24C day was anticipated. That shifted to 39C, then 40C, and has now settled at a sweltering 41C. The extreme heat will be preceded by a warm Christmas Eve night of 26C, following a daytime high of 39C on the 24th.
A severe heatwave is likely in Perth for the three days leading up to Christmas, with temperatures climbing to 31C on Monday, December 22nd, and 36C on Tuesday, December 23rd.
Thankfully, relief is in sight for Boxing Day, with the mercury expected to drop to a more comfortable maximum of 30C after a minimum of 23C.
A Nation of Weather Extremes
While Perth and much of Western Australia endures intense heat, the weather story across Australia is one of stark contrasts. The south-west of WA will see milder conditions in the late 20s to early 30s.
In a remarkable split, Melbourne and Hobart are facing their coldest Christmas Day in years, with forecast tops of just 17C and 16C respectively. Senior meteorologist Jonathan How noted that if Melbourne only reaches 17C, it will be the city's coldest Christmas Day since 2006.
"Quite the extremes across both ends of the country," Mr How said. He added that western Tasmania could see showers, and there is even a chance of light snow flurries over elevated areas on Christmas morning.
Other capitals will experience varied conditions:
- Brisbane: Hot and muggy at 35C, with a chance of an afternoon shower or thunderstorm.
- Adelaide, Sydney, and Canberra: Enjoying a 'sweet spot' with maximums in the mid-20s.
- Darwin and Cairns: Predicted maximums in the low 30s.
The Kimberley region is forecast for storms and rain on Christmas Day, while the Pilbara will bake with temperatures in the low to mid-40s.
Critical Health Warnings Issued
The anticipated scorching temperatures have prompted serious health warnings from authorities. WA's chief health officer, Dr Andrew Robertson, emphasised that extreme heat is Australia's deadliest natural hazard.
"We're seeing longer, hotter and more frequent heatwaves and Western Australians should prepare early and take precautions when temperatures climb," Dr Robertson stated.
He warned that extreme heat can strain the heart and kidneys, cause dehydration and heat exhaustion, and can be life-threatening if untreated. "Even fit and healthy people can be affected if they don't take precautions," he said.
WA Health advises the community to:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Seek shade or air-conditioning during the middle of the day.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
- Wear light, loose clothing and use sunscreen outdoors.
Dr Robertson also encouraged people to check on vulnerable neighbours, older relatives, and those living alone during the prolonged heat. "A quick call or visit can make all the difference," he said.
The unusual national weather pattern is driven by a high-pressure system hovering over the Great Australian Bight, which is uncommon for this time of year. For Melburnians, the cool day is simply a matter of poor timing. "It just comes down to timing and unfortunately the coolest day of the week coincides with Christmas Day," Mr How explained, adding that conditions will warm up in time for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
