Summer scorcher for southeast as temperatures expected to top 42 degrees
Our south-eastern states are in for soaring temperatures as the Australia Day weekend heatwave continues, with Adelaide headed for a scorching 42 degrees today.
South Australians escaped an Australia Day scorcher but are bracing for two days of very hot conditions to round out the holiday weekend.
After initial forecasts for a top of 38C and the hottest Australia Day since 2006, the mercury only reached 33C, perfect weather for those heading to the beach, to parks and to watch the one-day cricket international at Adelaide Oval.
But the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) said conditions across South Australia would be severe on Saturday and Sunday with tops of 41C in Adelaide, and 42C predicted in the state's far north, ahead of a cool change.
A fire weather warning has been issued for the Mount Lofty Ranges and Lower south-east, with very hot and dry conditions and winds of up to 30km/h. Residents in those areas are advised to activate their bushfire survival plan.
The BOM's Dean Sgarbossa said temperatures are six to 12 degrees above average in South Australia, Western Victoria and Tasmania.
“But soon, relief will come for Adelaide, where a trough will lower temperatures into the mid 30s," he added.
“The real change will come into Monday, where a cold front should drop temperatures into the mid 20s."
Despite the cooler than expected conditions on Australia Day, an extreme heat warning remained in place for the weekend, with the BOM forecasting the mercury to climb into the early 40s in Adelaide.
The three-day blast will be the SA capital's second heatwave this month with similar conditions last week leading to 40 people being admitted to hospitals with heat-related conditions.
SES Commander Derren Halleday advised those in the southern states to stay out of the sun and remain hydrated, following recent days of high temperatures.
“After a hot Australia Day yesterday, make sure to look after your mates after they are coming off a potentially dehydrating day,” he told Weekend Sunrise.
“When at the beach, swim between the flags… People do enjoy their beaches and rivers at this time, so we have to focus on staying safe at these areas.”
Victoria fire warning
With Victoria bracing for more hot and humid conditions this weekhot and humid conditions this week, an increase fire danger is almost imminent, Country Fire Authority Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley warned.
“It’s been over 40 in the northern part of the state every day, and continues next week. Mildura is over 40 again on Monday," he said.
Sunday is expected to be the hottest day of the weekend, with the mercury almost reaching 40C in the city and higher in northern parts of the state.
“The overnight temperatures have sobered up [Friday night], and it has caused a number of fires. There is a concern that they are in a number of remote areas in the bush," Mr Lapsley added.
“The fire danger is still there, however we have been lucky enough to see a bit of rain come through, and has made the atmosphere at a bit damp, but we suddenly have a fire risk for the next couple of days.”
CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington urged all Victorians to check weather and fire conditions as part of their long weekend preparations.
“With [dry and hot conditions in mind] I would strongly urge people to check the Fire Danger Rating for their area and stay informed of any emergency warnings, information and potential Total Fire Ban Days.
“If you’re firing up the barbecue with friends this weekend, make sure that your barbecue and hose are in good condition and check connections and fittings are tight."
Australia Day scorcher: The weather and events happening in your city
Nationally, the monsoon trough across northern Australia is triggering areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms, according to Weatherzone.
"Troughs over WA, NT, SA, southern NSW and VIC are generating widespread showers and thunderstorms, some severe.
"Conditions in TAS are clearer with a high pressure ridge," Weatherzone added.
