Key Takeaways
- South Australia and Victoria are experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach near 50C in some areas
- Over 1,100 residents have been told to prepare for evacuation due to extreme fire danger
- Heat records are likely to be broken throughout Victoria and eastern South Australia
- The heatwave is expected to persist into next weekend, with temperatures in the mid-to-high 40s
- The climate crisis is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves and bushfires
Introduction to the Heatwave
South Australia faced another day of scorching heat on Monday, while Victorians prepared for conditions forecast to be the hottest in history. The Bureau of Meteorology predicted that temperatures in Ouyen and Mildura in north-west Victoria could reach 49C on Tuesday, exceeding the state’s all-time record of 48.8C. Maximum temperatures of 45C were forecast for Melbourne, nearing the city’s all-time record of 46.4C. Dean Narramore, a senior meteorologist, stated that numerous locations would approach or exceed January and annual records on Tuesday.
Temperature Records and Heatwave Duration
The heatwave is expected to persist into next weekend, with temperatures in the mid-to-high 40s forecast for inland areas across Victoria, SA, and New South Wales. Overnight temperatures across Adelaide would remain in the mid-30s, and the severe-to-extreme heat would continue to pose a significant risk to residents. The prolonged run of high temperatures is unusual, and Narramore emphasized the importance of staying cool, hydrated, and indoors. Victoria’s chief health officer, Dr. Caroline McElnay, warned that prolonged heat, combined with high overnight temperatures, increases the risk of heat-related illness.
Health Risks and Precautions
Heat-related illness can come on quickly, and it is essential to recognize the warning signs, including heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, pale or clammy skin, or feeling unusually weak or confused. If someone shows signs of heatstroke, such as very high body temperature, red hot skin, confusion, or loss of consciousness, it is crucial to call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Life Saving Victoria urged anyone heading to the beach or pool to stay safe in the water, as the risk of drowning doubles on public holidays. The body’s response to heatwaves is a significant concern, as it puts intense stress on the cardiovascular system and kidneys, increasing the risk of cardiovascular collapse.
Fire Danger and Evacuations
Total fire bans were in place for SA’s west coast and NSW’s central ranges on Monday, and a statewide total fire ban would be in place across Victoria on Tuesday. Residents in Gellibrand, Kawarren, Beech Forest, Forrest, Barongarook, and surrounding areas were being urged to get ready to evacuate, with police and the State Emergency Service door-knocking homes to warn of the potential fire threat. The Country Fire Authority’s chief officer, Jason Heffernan, stated that the heat would be a challenge for firefighters and communities, and there was a heat emergency going on, in addition to a fire emergency across the state of Victoria.
Climate Crisis and Energy Market
Australia experienced its fourth-warmest year on record in 2025, with average temperatures up 1.23C nationally, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. The climate crisis has increased the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves and bushfires. Hotter-than-average days and nights are expected to continue until April for much of the country, according to the latest long-range forecast. Sea surface temperatures would remain warmer than average globally, including around Australia. Australia’s energy market operator said the power grid was prepared for increased demand due to the heat, but the prolonged heatwave would still pose a significant challenge to the energy market.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the heatwave affecting South Australia and Victoria is expected to persist into next weekend, with temperatures in the mid-to-high 40s forecast for inland areas. The climate crisis is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves and bushfires. It is essential for residents to stay cool, hydrated, and indoors, and to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness. The energy market operator has prepared for increased demand, but the prolonged heatwave will still pose a significant challenge to the energy market. As the climate crisis continues to worsen, it is crucial for individuals and communities to take precautions and prepare for extreme weather events.
