Soaring Temperatures Set to Challenge October Records Across Australia

Australia is bracing for an exceptional heatwave, with temperatures predicted to soar 15 degrees Celsius above average. This surge in warmth is expected to challenge October temperature records across multiple states and territories.

Record-Breaking Temperatures Expected Across Australia

Recent weather patterns have pushed temperatures in regions like Adelaide and Melbourne suburbs above 30C, with forecasts indicating a further rise. On Friday, Western Sydney is expected to reach 34C, climbing to an alarming 37C by Monday. Meanwhile, Canberra could approach its October record of 32.7C, with forecasts predicting 33C on the same day.

Forecast for Record Highs

The interior of Australia is set to experience oppressive conditions, with maximums climbing into the mid-40s. Specific forecasts include:

• New South Wales/ACT: 42C at Tibooburra on Monday (record: 43.9C in 1919)
• Northern Territory: 44C at Finke on Monday (record: 45.0C in 2002)
• Queensland: 45C at Birdsville on Monday and Tuesday (record: 45.1C in 1995)
• South Australia: 46C at Oodnadatta on Monday (record: 45.4C in 1995)
• Tasmania: 26C at Campania on Sunday (record: 34.6C in 1987)
• Victoria: 36C at Mildura on Sunday (record: 40.2C in 2004)
• Western Australia: 44C at Fitzroy Crossing on Thursday (record: 46.9C in 2002)

Hot Air Mass Causes Elevated Fire Danger

The ongoing heatwave is accompanied by low humidity and gusty winds, raising fire danger levels across many regions. Most of Australia is expected to encounter “high” fire danger ratings, although southern areas might see conditions escalate to “extreme.”

A phenomenon known as dry lightning, which can ignite fires without rainfall, is also possible in western South Australia and eastern New South Wales this coming week.

Cool Change on the Horizon

Relief from the heat is anticipated following this heatwave. After the initial burst of soaring temperatures, a southerly change is expected to sweep through. This change could drop temperatures by as much as 15C within 24 hours, affecting Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney from Sunday to Tuesday.

Potential for Hottest October on Record

The current heatwave continues a trend of unseasonably warm weather established in September. Daytime temperatures across the eastern seaboard are already averaging 5C above seasonal norms. Sydney’s average maximum for October stands at 22.2C, with a record of 26.2C set in 1988. Currently, temperatures are averaging 27.2C, pointing towards an unprecedented October if the trend continues.

Similarly, Brisbane is on track to challenge its warmest October mean of 28.8C from 2013, as current averages sit at 28.9C.