A blistering and potentially record-breaking heatwave is gripping Western Australia, prompting severe and extreme warnings for large swathes of the state and elevating the fire danger to critical levels in some regions.
Severe and Extreme Heatwave Warnings in Force
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe heatwave warning for the Kimberley, Central West, and Lower West regions. Residents in the Pilbara, Gascoyne, and North Interior are facing an even more serious extreme heatwave warning.
Forecasters predict maximum temperatures will range from the high thirties to the mid-forties across the state. Parts of the Gascoyne and Pilbara are expected to sizzle with highs in the late forties. Towns likely to be severely impacted include Carnarvon, Coral Bay, Denham, Geraldton, Gingin, Kalbarri, Marble Bar, Newman, Paraburdoo, and Yanchep.
Meteorologist Jessica Lingard warned the intense conditions in the Pilbara could challenge the state and national temperature record of 50.7 degrees Celsius, set at Onslow Airport in January 2022. "I’m positive we would be close to that 2022 record," Ms Lingard said, noting verification could be limited by remote weather station infrastructure.
Fire Danger and Community Impacts
The scorching heat, combined with dry conditions and northeasterly winds, has driven an extreme fire danger warning for the Midwest on Tuesday, 20 January 2026. This alert follows a significant bushfire in Geraldton during December that burned over 160 hectares and threatened 600 properties.
In Geraldton, the mercury at the airport had already hit 38C before 9am on Tuesday, with a forecast peak of a staggering 46C by mid-afternoon. Ms Lingard explained a West Coast trough was dragging intense heat down the coast into the Midwest.
Authorities emphasise that severe heatwaves pose risks to the elderly, babies, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions. Extreme heatwaves, however, are dangerous for everyone.
Industry Response and Perth Forecast
Major mining companies operating in the Pilbara have activated heat safety procedures for workers facing temperatures nearing 50C. A Fortescue Metals Group spokesperson outlined mandated breaks, air-conditioned crib rooms, and cooling amenities like slushy machines. Similarly, BHP has implemented adjusted work times, water stations, and shaded rest areas to protect crews.
While Perth avoided the most severe official warnings, the metropolitan area is still in for a sweltering stretch. The Bureau forecast a top of 39C for Tuesday, 20 January 2026, with a high chance of the city cracking 40C. Northeastern suburbs like Ellenbrook, Midland, Kalamunda, and Armadale were likely to hover around the 40-degree mark.
"The latest updates show Perth is also likely to sit at either 39 or 40C on Wednesday, so it is going to be a bit of a hot stretch for residents," Ms Lingard said. The heat is expected to persist before a cooler change arrives later in the week.
Staying Safe in the Scorching Heat
The Bureau of Meteorology and health officials urge residents to take the heatwave seriously. Key advice includes:
- Reschedule strenuous work for the coolest parts of the day, early morning or late evening.
- Stay hydrated and seek out air-conditioned spaces like shopping centres or libraries.
- At home, keep heat out by closing windows, drawing blinds and curtains, and using awnings.
- Remember that hot nights are also a part of a heatwave, so focus on keeping your sleeping area cool.
PERTH WEATHER FORECAST
Tuesday: 22C - 39C, Sunny
Wednesday: 22C - 38C, Sunny
Thursday: 23C - 38C, Sunny
Friday: 18C - 24C, Partly cloudy
Saturday: 14C - 25C, Sunny
Sunday: 17C - 24C, Shower or two
Monday: 15C - 23C, Partly cloudy
