Australia is currently in the grips of an extraordinary heatwave that has demolished record high temperatures across the continent. In Melbourne, the temperature has soared past 42 degrees Celsius. This week’s record-breaking heatwave comes on the heels of a record-setting year for unprecedented high temperatures. In reality, 2025 becomes the record’s fourth-warmest year, thanks to a large national rise of 1.23 degrees Celsius. The urgent reality of the climate crisis makes this a concerning trend. Climate change has worsened the intensity and scale of extreme weather events, from heatwaves to bushfires.
As the heatwave engulfed much of Australia, Melbourne recorded an eye-watering 42.9 degrees Celsius at 3:40 PM on Saturday. Even suburbs such as Laverton and Viewbank were not immune, with a maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius recorded in these suburbs. Further afield, Hay airport in New South Wales areas recorded a staggering 44.9 degrees Celsius. In South Australia’s Riverland region, Renmark reached a searing 47.3 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Loxton wasn’t far off in the race, hitting a searing 46.2 degrees. Hopetoun in Victoria’s Mallee region saw extreme temperatures, breaking their record set in 2009 with a scorching 46.3 degrees Celsius.
Local authorities have told residents to shelter in place through this unusual, life-threatening extreme weather event. The Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, characterized the day as “the most dangerous day we have had in years,” highlighting the perilous conditions fire crews face as they battle blazes across the region.
“Do not travel today if you don’t need to,” – Jason Heffernan
This extreme heat is not just confined to Victoria. Sydney is expected to feel the worst of the heatwave on Saturday. ORBIT Temperatures are predicted to exceed 40 degrees Celsius with a high of around 42 degrees Celsius. Canberra, the national capital, is preparing for extreme heat. According to the national meteorological service, forecasters expect a maximum temperature of 37° C.
Andrew Watkins, a climate scientist with the World Meteorological Organization, explained that climate change is making extreme weather patterns like these much worse. He explained that while flooding is typically a concern during extreme weather conditions, two critical factors have contributed to the current heatwave: “the strongest stratospheric warming above Antarctica since 2019, and climate change.”
As the relentless heat continues to affect daily life across Australia, individuals and families are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions against potential health risks associated with high temperatures.
An unusually strong cool change is forecast to sweep through most of southwestern Victoria early this afternoon. It should make it into Melbourne around 6 PM – 7 PM. This transition brings some hope to the residents who are suffering under extreme heat.
“We hope for the best but we prepare for the worst,” – Anthony Albanese
Emergency services are still on high alert, ready to respond to any emergencies caused by the severe conditions that break people’s hearts. Firefighters are still working to control dozens of active fires in Victoria in what officials have called “the most difficult conditions in the world.”