Key Takeaways:
- A severe three-day heatwave is affecting Perth and much of Western Australia, with temperatures expected to reach the late 30s and 40s.
- A total fire ban has been issued for areas surrounding Geraldton, where the fire danger is listed as extreme and the temperature is forecast to reach 42C.
- Tropical Cyclone Grant is intensifying off the north-west coast of Western Australia and is expected to impact the Cocos (Keeling) Islands as a category two system on Christmas Day.
- Residents are advised to take precautions to stay safe during the heatwave, including staying hydrated and staying indoors during the hottest part of the day.
- Travellers are warned to be prepared for extreme weather conditions and to take necessary precautions, such as carrying plenty of water and not leaving their vehicles if they break down.
Introduction to the Heatwave
Perth and much of Western Australia are experiencing a severe three-day heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach the late 30s and 40s. The heatwave is expected to peak on Christmas Day, with the hottest weather forecast for the Perth metropolitan area, Dwellingup, Geraldton, Gingin, Karratha, and Yanchep. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for the affected areas, advising residents to take precautions to stay safe during the heatwave.
Impact on Local Residents
Despite the extreme heat, some residents are taking the heatwave in stride. Kelvin Raynor, a 67-year-old retiree from Geraldton, says he’s not fazed by the 41C forecast for Christmas Day. Having worked in temperatures as high as 55 degrees, Raynor is confident that he and his Shih Tzu dog, Molly, will be fine spending the day at their unit without air conditioning. However, he has a message for anyone travelling on Christmas Day on Mid West roads: "Just make sure you’ve got plenty of water… don’t leave your car if it breaks down."
Emergency Precautions
The Western Australian government has issued a range of emergency precautions to help residents stay safe during the heatwave. A total fire ban has been issued for areas surrounding Geraldton, where the fire danger is listed as extreme and the temperature is forecast to reach 42C. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather conditions and to follow the instructions of emergency services. The WA Emergency Information website provides up-to-date information on warnings, incidents, and road closures, and residents can contact the SES on 131 500 for emergency assistance.
Tropical Cyclone Grant
Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Grant is intensifying off the north-west coast of Western Australia and is expected to impact the Cocos (Keeling) Islands as a category two system on Christmas Day. The cyclone formed on Tuesday morning as a category one system, about 400km east of the islands in the Indian Ocean. Destructive wind gusts of up to 130 kph are expected if the cyclone’s core passes close to the islands, and heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding. Residents of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe, including staying indoors and avoiding travel.
Staying Safe During the Heatwave
As the heatwave continues, residents are advised to take precautions to stay safe. This includes staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, and avoiding strenuous activities. Travellers are also warned to be prepared for extreme weather conditions, including carrying plenty of water and not leaving their vehicles if they break down. By taking these precautions, residents can help stay safe during the heatwave and enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.
