A significant heatwave is set to impact parts of Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia as the new year approaches. Temperatures are expected to soar 8°C to 12°C above average.
On Saturday, Marble Bar in Western Australia’s Pilbara region was predicted to reach an intense 49°C, with temperatures staying around 45°C for the following six days.
In Queensland, extreme heat and damage from recent storms have led to a dire situation. An extreme fire danger warning was issued for the Burrup region, and storm-affected areas like Longreach, Wilson, and Gympie are bracing for temperatures of 47°C, 43°C, and 37°C respectively.
Queensland storms leave residents without power, exacerbating the impact of extreme temperatures.Residents like Nicole Fraser-Lyons on the Gold Coast have been struggling without power, water, or phone reception since the Christmas Day storms.
The Northern Territory is also experiencing harsh conditions, with Tennant Creek expected to hit 43°C and Katherine around 40°C.
Relief is anticipated as heatwave conditions are likely to ease by Sunday in Queensland and by mid-week in the Northern Territory and Western Australia.
Minor flood warnings are still active in parts of Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria due to recent severe storms. Since Christmas, Queensland has reported seven storm-related fatalities, while three people died in Victoria’s storms and flash flooding on Boxing Day.
Southern states are expected to see cooler temperatures soon, with no extreme heat alerts predicted.