The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning to stay updated with weather forecasts as Australia braces for extreme conditions. Central Australia is experiencing record-breaking heat, with temperatures in some areas soaring 5-15°C above average.
On Thursday, Oodnadatta in South Australia hit 38.5°C, its hottest August day since 1946. Forecasts predict temperatures will reach 40°C at Fitzroy Crossing in Western Australia, 35°C in Alice Springs, and 38°C at Birdsville in Queensland this weekend.
Senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury noted that a weather week is expected, with southern Australia facing strong winds, storms, and hail.
Severe storms and strong winds are expected across the southeast, with warnings issued nationwide.“August is typically when temperatures start to rise towards spring, but this level of heat and its duration are unusual for this time of year,” she said.
Capital cities on the eastern seaboard will also experience above-average temperatures on Sunday, with Melbourne reaching 23°C and Sydney 26°C. Brisbane is expected to see temperatures above 30°C starting Monday. Bradbury mentioned that this early and intense heat is breaking records in some areas.
The BoM is predicting showers, storms, and strong winds across Victoria, southeast South Australia, and southern New South Wales starting Sunday. Some regions, including northern Victoria and southern NSW, might face severe storms and large hail.
Bradbury emphasized the importance of monitoring weather updates and warnings, especially given the current windy conditions. “It’s crucial to stay informed and watch for any alerts as conditions could change rapidly,” she advised.