As a heatwave continues to sweep across southeastern Australia, parts of Victoria are under extreme fire danger alerts.
Temperatures soared well above average, with some areas experiencing readings 15°C higher than usual.
By midday on Saturday, most of the state saw temperatures in the mid to high 30s, and Melbourne was expected to reach a scorching 37°C.
The intense heat is being driven by a trough and a cold front, which previously caused extreme temperatures in South Australia.
As the system moves eastward, it continues to bring sweltering conditions to Victoria and southern New South Wales, creating an elevated fire risk.
The combination of high temperatures and windy conditions led to fire bans in districts such as Mallee and Wimmera, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing severe heatwave warnings for areas like Mallacoota.
Cool change arrives after heatwave, bringing relief but severe thunderstorms for Victoria and NSW.This warning is particularly concerning because such extreme temperatures are unusual for the region, where the average is typically cooler.
Christie Johnson, a senior meteorologist with the Bureau of Meteorology, highlighted that the heatwave warnings were based on the area’s average temperatures, which are usually much lower.
She also explained that while other regions across the country are experiencing high temperatures, the prolonged heat in Victoria and southern NSW presents an exceptional risk, with fire danger and heatwave warnings in place.
The intense heat is expected to give way to a cool change late Saturday, providing some relief for the region.
By then, thunderstorms and heavy rain are also expected to move in, triggered by the approaching cold front. These weather systems will bring much-needed respite, but they also come with a risk of severe thunderstorms.
Areas in western Victoria and southern New South Wales should be prepared for these storms to intensify over the weekend and into next week.
The cooler weather is a welcome change, though the potential for floods and continued high temperatures in parts of New South Wales mean that Australians must remain vigilant throughout this dynamic weather event.