A prolonged and intense heatwave is gripping large portions of western New South Wales, south-western Queensland, and Victoria, with numerous local temperature records falling on Wednesday. The extreme conditions are compounded by ongoing bushfires in Victoria, creating a dangerous situation for residents.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Western New South Wales bore the brunt of the heat, with Borrona Downs reaching 49.2C. New all-time heat records were set at Tibooburra (48.7C), Hay Airport (48.4C), and White Cliffs (48.3C), which surpassed its previous record by a tenth of a degree. In Victoria, Yarrawonga experienced its hottest day on record, reaching 46C.
Remarkably, temperatures in the alpine regions of Falls Creek and Perisher Valley both reached 30.5C – the first time temperatures above 30C have been recorded at either location. This is significantly higher than the average January maximums of 18C at Falls Creek and 16.5C at Perisher Valley, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Widespread Impacts
While Queensland did not break any records, Thargomindah recorded a high of 48.5C on Wednesday afternoon. In Victoria, approximately 11,000 homes were left without power due to the strain on infrastructure caused by the extreme heat.
Residents in several New South Wales towns, including Dubbo, have endured temperatures above 40C since Saturday, with no relief expected until Monday. Mel Gray, a Dubbo resident and employee of the Nature Conservation Council of NSW, described the conditions as “climate change in real time,” noting the quiet streets as people seek shelter indoors. Dubbo broke its all-time heat record on Monday, reaching 46.1C, and forecast highs of 44C on Wednesday.
In Menindee, temperatures reached 49.1C on Tuesday, and residents report a relentless heat with no respite. Cherry Smith, owner of the Gellibrand River General Store in Victoria, described the impact of nearby bushfires, which have threatened the town’s water supply and power. She and her family defended their farm Tuesday night, but continued to provide meals for CFA volunteers and locals.
Looking Ahead
The heat is expected to shift back to northern South Australia on Thursday, but will persist in south-western Queensland and north-western NSW. Some areas may not experience relief until Sunday. The ongoing bushfires in Victoria, particularly the Carlise River fire, continue to pose a threat, with an emergency warning remaining in place for Otways communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of heatstroke?
According to information provided, symptoms of heatstroke include hot skin, confusion, weakness, cramps, dizziness, vomiting, and fainting.
Which areas are currently most affected by the heatwave?
Significant parts of western New South Wales, south-western Queensland, and Victoria are currently experiencing sweltering conditions.
What is the forecast for the coming days?
The heat is expected to shift to northern South Australia on Thursday, but will persist in south-western Queensland and north-western NSW, with some areas not seeing relief until Sunday.
How will communities adapt to increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves like this one?
