A historic heatwave is gripping south-eastern Australia, with forecasts predicting temperatures that could shatter state records and exacerbate ongoing bushfire crises. The extreme conditions have already broken Victoria's all-time maximum daily temperature record, while threatening new highs in New South Wales and Queensland.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Across Multiple States
On Tuesday, Victoria experienced unprecedented heat, with the Mallee towns of Walpeup and Hopetoun recording 48.9°C, surpassing the previous record of 48.8°C set during Black Saturday in 2009. The Victorian town of Ouyen was forecast to reach 49°C, which, if confirmed, would establish a new state temperature record. This intense heat has shifted northward, with western NSW, southern Queensland, and parts of Victoria's far north-east now in the firing line for potential record-setting temperatures on Wednesday.
Forecasted Highs and Local Records
In New South Wales, Wilcannia reached 45.4°C by midday with a forecasted maximum of 48°C, while Bourke climbed to 41.3°C, expecting 47°C. Other areas, such as Ivanhoe, could hit 48°C. Notably, a manual station in Pooncarie recorded 49.7°C on Tuesday, equalling the second hottest temperature in NSW history. In Queensland, Thargomindah is forecast to reach 49°C, nearing the state record of 49.5°C set in Birdsville in 1972. South Australia also saw extreme conditions, with Leigh Creek at 43.2°C and Coober Pedy expected to rise from 40.2°C to 45°C.
Bushfires Rage Out of Control Amid Extreme Heat
The heatwave has fuelled major bushfires, particularly in Victoria, where the Carlisle River fire has been burning for days. An emergency warning was issued for towns like Gellibrand in the Otways, with residents advised to take shelter. The fire spread past containment lines on Tuesday night due to a wind change, covering over 11,000 hectares and damaging critical infrastructure.
Water Supply Disruptions and Safety Concerns
Barwon Water warned that bushfire damage has compromised the Gellibrand water treatment plant, leaving the town without safe tap water by early Wednesday. Authorities are working with emergency services to inspect infrastructure and restore supplies, while arranging alternative water sources for residents once it is safe to return. This disruption highlights the cascading impacts of extreme weather events on public services and safety.
Climate Crisis Amplifying Extreme Weather Events
This heatwave marks Australia's second major event in January, with analysts noting that such extremes are made five times more likely due to global heating. The climate crisis is increasing the frequency and severity of heatwaves and bushfires, posing long-term risks. According to long-range forecasts, hotter-than-average days and nights are expected to persist until April for much of the country, with sea surface temperatures remaining elevated globally.
Senior meteorologist Angus Hines emphasised that the focal points for record-setting heat on Wednesday include far western NSW, southern and western Queensland, and parts of Victoria's far north-east. He also warned of extreme heat extending to central and southern tablelands, with Canberra expecting a top of 42°C and the NSW Riverina region forecasted for 44-47°C. As Australia braces for continued challenges, the interplay between rising temperatures and environmental disasters underscores the urgent need for climate action and resilient infrastructure.
