SA faces extreme fire risk during overnight heatwave but cooler weather is coming soon
South Australia is currently facing hazardous fire conditions as a heatwave sweeps across the state. A total fire ban was declared on Thursday, signaling increased vigilance against potential fires.
Forecasted Extreme Temperatures
This week, regional centers in South Australia are bracing for extremely high temperatures. Key areas are expected to experience the following:
- Port Pirie: 40°C
- Port Augusta: 40°C
- Kimba: 40°C
- Wudinna: 40°C
- Coober Pedy: 41°C
Adelaide recorded 28°C by 6 AM, with a projected high of 37°C in Elizabeth and 34°C in the city later in the day. The forecast indicates mid to high 30s across agricultural regions, with some areas potentially reaching above 39°C.
Unusually Cool November and Fire Ban
November saw unusually mild weather, with average temperatures 0.5°C below normal, contributing to delays in the typical fire season. Some southern regions also experienced above-average rainfall, marking the first total fire ban in 20 years, issued on November 24.
Warnings from Meteorology Experts
Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Chris Kent emphasized the risk of extreme fire danger across the West Coast and Eastern Eyre Peninsula. The risk extends throughout much of southern South Australia as hot, dry, and windy conditions push eastward.
Temperatures on Thursday are expected to rise significantly, several degrees above December norms, amid gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h. These winds will peak in the late morning before a shift in weather occurs in the afternoon.
Expected Weather Change
A change in conditions is anticipated for Adelaide and surrounding areas by late afternoon, impacting the Murraylands, Mid North, Riverland, and Eastern Eyre Peninsula in the evening. While fire dangers may lessen as the front moves through, persistent gusty winds could complicate ongoing fire situations.
Upcoming Weather Conditions
Following Thursday’s heat, Adelaide should see a drop in temperatures. The forecast for the upcoming days is as follows:
- Friday: Sunny, high of 26°C
- Saturday: 22°C with a potential shower
- Sunday: High of 21°C
Cooler south to southwest winds over the weekend are predicted to reduce fire risks across most districts, according to meteorological sources.
Advice for Residents
CFS Executive Director Statewide Operations Brenton Hastie emphasized the importance of preparedness. He urged residents involved in agricultural or machinery work to adhere to grain harvesting guidelines and ensure family bushfire survival plans are in place.
While South Australia is facing an average fire season overall, the delayed arrival of dry conditions and rain has kept fire risks varied, particularly in forested areas like the Mid North, Mount Lofty Ranges, and Lower South East.
