Over the weekend, a severe heatwave in Australia caused temperatures to soar above 40°C (104°F) across much of the country, with the Pilbara region in Western Australia experiencing the worst conditions.
On Saturday, Paraburdoo reached 47.9°C, and by Sunday, Onslow Airport recorded a high of 48.3°C. Onslow, which set Australia’s highest temperature record at 50.7°C in January 2022, may see temperatures of 50-51°C in the coming days, potentially challenging its record.
In contrast, parts of Australia’s Northern Territory have been grappling with heavy rainfall due to a stagnant low-pressure system.
Pilbara region swelters with temperatures surpassing 48°C, nearing record heat levels.Since January 13, over 100mm of rain has fallen almost daily, including a notable 334.8mm at Port Keats on January 15. Central areas like Tennant Creek have seen 290mm of rain since the start of the year, far exceeding the typical 50-100mm for January.
This has led to significant flooding, blocking roads and railways. Remote supermarkets are facing shortages, and the town of Kalkarinji has been severely affected, with essential services disrupted and local cultural artifacts moved to safety.
The low-pressure system is expected to shift westward into Western Australia, potentially offering some relief from the heatwave but continuing to bring heavy rainfall. Forecasts suggest daily totals of 100mm or more, with possible accumulations of 300-400mm later in the week.
Additionally, a tropical low in the Coral Sea is projected to develop into Cyclone Kirrily, impacting Queensland with winds of 80-100mph later this week. The exact timing and strength of the storm are still uncertain.