West Australians are being told to brace for a sustained blast of severe heat, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing a heatwave warning set to grip the state for much of the week. This comes after a brief and dramatic respite of tropical storms that lashed parts of WA on Sunday.
State Swelters Under Intense Heat
The forecast indicates that temperatures across many areas of Western Australia will climb into the high 30s, with some regions likely to reach the mid-40s. The uncomfortable conditions are expected to persist through the nights, with overnight minimums forecast to sit between the mid-teens and mid-twenties, offering little relief.
Authorities are reinforcing the classic sun safety message, urging residents to slip on protective clothing, slop on sunscreen, and slap on a hat. The warning highlights specific regions of concern, including:
- The Goldfields and Eucla
- South Interior and South Coastal districts
- South East Coastal, Great Southern, and Central Wheatbelt areas
South West Set for Slight Reprieve
Meteorologist Angus Hines provided some positive news for the South West, noting a change in wind patterns is bringing slightly cooler conditions. "The wind has changed over the southern parts of Western Australia and that's knocked the temperatures down after a run of very hot days," Mr Hines said.
He also expressed hope that the shift could aid firefighting efforts, stating, "Hopefully that change in wind can help quell some of the ongoing fires in the South West of the State." Locations such as Hopetoun, Hyden, Kalgoorlie, Katanning, Lake Grace, Mount Barker, Narrogin, Ravensthorpe, and Wagin are most likely to feel this moderating change.
Perth's Sunny Week Ahead
For Perth residents, the forecast promises a week of predominantly sunny skies and rising heat. The Bureau of Meteorology's latest forecast for the capital is as follows:
Wednesday: Partly cloudy, 19-26°C
Thursday: Sunny, 16-33°C
Friday: Sunny, 17-33°C
Saturday: Sunny, 17-30°C
Sunday: Sunny, 14-30°C
Monday: Sunny, 17-31°C
Tuesday: Sunny, 17-34°C
With the heatwave warning current and the forecast indicating a steady climb in temperatures, West Australians are being advised to take all necessary precautions. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the peak heat of the day, and checking in on vulnerable neighbours, friends, and family members.
