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Record Heatwave to Bake Australia
23 Jan
Summary
- Extreme heatwave forecast for SA, VIC, NSW, and QLD.
- Temperatures could exceed 40C for over five days inland.
- Catastrophic fire danger predicted for parts of South Australia.
South-east Australia is facing a prolonged period of intense heat starting from Saturday, January 25, 2026. Inland regions of South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and southern Queensland are forecast to experience temperatures above 40C for over five days. This extreme heat poses a significant fire risk, with catastrophic fire danger anticipated for the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia on Saturday, January 25, 2026.
Several states are at risk of breaking all-time temperature records. Victoria could see Mallee region temperatures approach 49C by Tuesday, January 28, 2026, challenging its historical record. Melbourne is expected to reach 40C on Saturday, January 25, 2026, and 42C by Tuesday, January 28, 2026. New South Wales faces a spike on Sunday, January 26, 2026, and midweek, with Bourke possibly reaching 49C on Wednesday, January 29, 2026.
Southwest Queensland's Thargomindah may hit 48C on Wednesday and Thursday, January 29-30, 2026. Meanwhile, Western Australia is monitoring a tropical low expected to intensify into Cyclone Luana. These extreme weather events are occurring in the context of Australia's fourth-warmest year on record in 2025 and are linked to increased frequency and severity due to the climate crisis.
