A significant early autumn heatwave has impacted millions of Australians, with temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius in some regions. This particularly affects areas in the north, including Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory, where extreme heat is expected to persist throughout the week.
Yulara, near Uluru, experienced its hottest-ever autumn Saturday, hitting a scorching 45.3 degrees. Similarly, Oodnadatta in South Australia recorded its highest March temperature in 75 years, peaking at 46.1 degrees. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued heatwave warnings for multiple districts, including the North Interior District, Kimberley, Pilbara, Gascoyne, and South Interior Districts in Western Australia, extending these warnings through Tuesday.
The Northern Territory is also on alert, with regions like Daly, Tiwi, Gregory, Barkley, Simpson, Lasseter, and Tanami facing severe heatwave conditions expected to continue until mid-next week. Queensland’s Gulf Country and North West areas are likewise bracing for temperatures exceeding 40 degrees in the coming days.
Residents in the affected regions have been advised to remain indoors, utilise air conditioning and fans, and check on vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and infants. While major cities like Perth and Darwin are predicted to experience temperatures around 34 degrees, Canberra will see highs of 33 degrees. Brisbane is forecasted to reach 30 degrees, while Sydney will remain slightly cooler at 28 degrees. In contrast, Melbourne is set to enjoy a different experience with a maximum of just 21 degrees.
Adelaide will see temperatures of 27 degrees, while Hobart will be significantly cooler at 19 degrees. The ongoing heatwave highlights the need for caution as Australian summer conditions linger, even as autumn approaches.