Severe Heatwave Expected to Hit Southeast Australia, Thunderstorms Batter North

As Australia gears up for a scorching weekend, a severe heatwave warning has been issued for much of the southeast, while the northern regions contend with fierce thunderstorms and heavy rain.

P24 News Media

November 21, 2024

1 minute

Severe Heatwave Expected to Hit Southeast Australia, Thunderstorms Batter North

India

The southeastern regions of Australia are bracing for an oppressive heatwave this weekend, with temperatures projected to rise as much as 15°C above the November mean. Simultaneously, the northern sections of the nation are grappling with extreme thunderstorms that bring heavy rains and a risk of flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has delivered a heatwave alert for the southeastern territories, anticipating intense heat as north-easterly winds drive hot air down south. Meteorologist Helen Reid noted, “A significant hot weather pattern is poised to envelop expansive areas of South Australia, along with central and southern New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania in the next few days.”

Throughout the week and into the weekend, certain regions might see temperatures soaring into the mid-30s. This uptick in heat is not merely a brief occurrence; unlike the previous single or two-day hot spells quickly succeeded by cooler air, this forecast signals an extended period of warmer days. “This time around, residents can expect three consecutive days of elevated temperatures before a mild shift occurs,” Ms. Reid added.

East Gippsland is under a heatwave warning, with both daytime and nighttime temperatures anticipated to exceed the national averages typically seen during this season. The Snowy Mountains area of New South Wales is also expected to receive severe heatwave alerts extending into the Illawarra region by Friday.

While temperatures are predicted to stabilize for South Australian and Tasmanian residents over the weekend, the oppressive heat will linger in Victoria and New South Wales through early next week. The southeast has to prepare for an unyielding heatwave poised to stretch into both the weekend and the following week.

On the flip side, parts of Western Australia and Queensland were hit by severe thunderstorms this past Wednesday, with forecasts indicating additional hazardous winds and torrential rainfall, compounding the risks of flash flooding in those areas. This tumultuous weather serves as a stark reminder of the contrasting conditions faced across the country as it transitions into summer.