A formidable heat dome is propelling a historic heatwave through much of Australia, prompting widespread warnings as millions celebrate the national holiday on 26 January.
The Bureau of Meteorology anticipates temperatures near 50°C in south-eastern regions by Tuesday, threatening records not broken since the 1930s. Ceduna logged 49.5°C recently, with Mildura eyeing Victoria’s new high at 49°C.
Extreme fire risks prevail amid dry, windy weather. Victorian firefighters confront multiple outbreaks, sparking evacuations and endangering homes.
Safety fears prompted cancellations of Australia Day events, including Adelaide’s parade and light show ahead of a record 45°C.
“While this is deeply disappointing for the community, performers and partners, community safety and wellbeing must come first,” organisers said.
The occasion recalls the 1788 First Fleet landing that sparked European settlement. Indigenous Australians and others term it “Invasion Day,” evoking colonial cultural losses.
Rallies for First Nations rights drew crowds nationwide on Monday.
Alerts span New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and Australian Capital Territory, alongside Victoria and South Australia, through midweek.
Victoria’s emergency management commissioner Tim Wiebusch told ABC, “We haven’t seen heatwave conditions like this in Victoria for almost 20 years.”
“It was 2009 ahead of the bushfires where we saw those prevailing conditions and so we are indicating to all Victorians that this is a very serious set of weather conditions.”
Extreme fire dangers afflict South Australia and south-western Victoria from blistering heat and gusts.
At Melbourne’s Australian Open, Jannik Sinner suffered cramps on Saturday, suspending play as nearly 80,000 fans heeded sun warnings.
Tropical Cyclone Luana struck Western Australia over the weekend, wrecking homes and a resort before fading inland.
Authorities recommend cool spots in homes, libraries, or shopping centres, with windows shut and curtains drawn.