Key Takeaways:
- A severe heatwave is affecting eastern Australia, with temperatures expected to reach over 40 degrees in some areas.
- The heatwave is expected to persist until Monday, with severe storms and flash flooding predicted to follow.
- The storms may bring strong winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall, potentially causing power outages, property damage, and flash flooding.
- Southern Queensland, northern Victoria, inland NSW, and the ACT are expected to experience patchy storm activity, with a cold front approaching from the Great Australian Bight.
- The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast rain in parts of Queensland, with a chance of thunderstorms in the south-east interior.
Introduction to the Heatwave
The eastern region of Australia is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to over 40 degrees in some areas. The heatwave is expected to persist until Monday, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. While Brisbane and south-east Queensland were initially spared the worst of the heat, the next few days are expected to see temperatures rise above 30 degrees, with a chance of thunderstorms on Tuesday. The national heatwave has delivered 40-degree plus temperatures across a wide swathe of Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and NSW.
Heatwave Impacts
The heatwave is not only causing discomfort due to the high temperatures but also due to the near-record overnight temperatures on Australia’s east coast. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines stated that Sydney’s nighttime low into Monday would be about 24 degrees, while Newcastle’s would be 25 degrees and Brisbane might get down to 23. However, these temperatures would not be reached until around 6 am, and the temperature at 10 or 11 pm would likely be around 28 or 29 degrees. This would make it difficult for people to get a good night’s sleep, adding to the overall discomfort caused by the heatwave.
Storms and Flash Flooding
In addition to the heat, the region is also expected to experience severe storms and flash flooding. Southern Queensland, northern Victoria, inland NSW, and the ACT are bound to cop patchy storm activity on Saturday. A cold front approaching from the Great Australian Bight is expected to deliver an unbroken band of rain across Victoria, NSW, and Tasmania, bringing with it the widespread risk of severe thunderstorms and the chance of extreme conditions mostly west of Canberra. The storms may bring strong winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall, potentially causing power outages, property damage, and flash flooding.
Severe Weather Warnings
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for the region, with a chance of thunderstorms in the south-east interior. The storms are expected to be severe enough to down trees and trigger outages and flash floods. The bureau has forecast rain in parts of Queensland on Saturday, with possible heavy falls about the Gulf and a possible storm also for the south-east interior. The cold front is expected to bring significant stormy weather over the course of a couple of days, with the potential for some extreme conditions.
Preparations and Precautions
Residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions to stay safe during the heatwave and storms. This includes staying hydrated, staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, and having a plan in place in case of power outages or flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the heatwave and storms. It is essential for residents to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities to ensure their safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the eastern region of Australia is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach over 40 degrees in some areas. The heatwave is expected to persist until Monday, with severe storms and flash flooding predicted to follow. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions to stay safe during the heatwave and storms, and to stay informed about the latest updates and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, residents can minimize the risks associated with the heatwave and storms and stay safe until the weather improves.
