The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued heatwave warnings for most of Australia. The BoM says a heatwave is where there are three consecutive days where both the maximum and minimum temperatures are well above the average for this time of year.
Heatwave warnings have been issued for every state and territory except Western Australia and Tasmania.
A total fire ban is in place in Victoria.
Heatwave temperatures
The highest temperatures will be in the regions in north-east South Australia, western NSW, and north-west Victoria.
Some areas could reach up to 47°C.
Melbourne will be the hottest capital city on Monday, forecasted to reach 41°C – marking its hottest December day since 2019.
In the southern areas, extreme heat conditions are expected to ease slightly on Tuesday, but will persist further north.
Fire Ban
Hot, dry, and windy conditions are expected to cause extreme bushfire risks across much of Victoria, with total fire bans in place. This means no open fires can be lit, including activities such as fireworks and bonfires.
Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Jason Heffernan told residents in Victoria: “If you live in a fire-prone area, now is the time to review your fire plan and make sure you are prepared to leave early if needed. Don’t wait until it’s too late to act.”
