Western Australia is set to sizzle through an intense heatwave to kick off 2026, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing severe warnings for multiple regions as temperatures are forecast to surge past 40 degrees Celsius.
Severe Heatwave Warning Issued
The Bureau of Meteorology has activated a heatwave warning for a vast swathe of the state. The affected regions include the Pilbara, Gascoyne, Goldfields, Eucla, North and South Interior, and the Central Wheatbelt. The harsh conditions are expected to build over the weekend and intensify into the start of next week, with the mercury creeping into the mid-forties in some areas.
Meteorologist Angus Hines confirmed that sunshine and severe heat are in store for large parts of WA. He stated that while the west coast will see temperatures in the mid-thirties, the heat will ramp up significantly inland.
Regional Forecasts: Where Will It Be Hottest?
In the Goldfields, Kalgoorlie is preparing for a scorching Saturday maximum of 41C, which will rise to 43C on Sunday and a blistering 44C on Monday.
The Pilbara will also endure extreme conditions. Karratha is forecast to hit 39C over the weekend. Further inland, Newman is bracing for 41C on Saturday and 43C on Sunday, while Port Hedland will see consistent highs of 39C across both days.
Closer to Perth, the Wheatbelt towns of Northam and York won't be spared, with maximums of 40C and 41C expected over the weekend.
Perth's More Moderate Conditions
Residents in the Perth metropolitan area can expect a reprieve from the worst of the heat, although it will still be warm. The city is forecast for a sunny weekend with temperatures hovering in the low thirties.
The detailed Perth forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology is as follows:
- Saturday: Sunny, 22-33 ☀️
- Sunday: Sunny, 21-33 ☀️
- Monday: Sunny, 20-32 ☀️
- Tuesday: Sunny, 19-29 ☀️
- Wednesday: Sunny, 17-30 ☀️
- Thursday: Sunny, 18-30 ☀️
- Friday: Sunny, 16-29 ☀️
Authorities are urging communities in the warning zones to take necessary precautions against the heat, including staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and checking on vulnerable neighbours.
