Parts of Australia will face catastrophic fire conditions on Friday, as heatwaves hit most of the country, creating the most significant conditions since the Black Summer bushfires. Severe to extreme heatwaves have been declared in every state and territory in Australia, except for Queensland, with high temperatures forecast for days.
The state of Victoria has declared a total fire ban for Friday with northern areas shutting 450 schools and childcare centres, as the fire danger level for the region will be set at catastrophic - the highest level. One meteorologist indicated that the combination of heatwaves and an elevated fire danger poses a risk not seen in years.
On Thursday, firefighters battled several fires in Victoria and New South Wales (NSW), using dozen planes carrying water to tackle a large blaze near Wodonga city. Melbourne also hit its hottest day in six years with temperatures reaching 40.9°C (105.6°F), while some coastal towns in Western Australia measured a staggering 49°C.
In NSW, the heatwave is expected to peak on Saturday, with Sydney facing high temperatures of 42°C. The Bureau of Meteorology warns of potential thunderstorms with little rain and dry lightning strikes that could exacerbate fire risks.
This current heat event marks the most significant multi-day heatwave for inland southeast Australia since 2019-2020, very much reminiscent of the catastrophic bushfire events during the 'Black Summer' season that killed dozens and burnt thousands of hectares.
Authorities urge residents in forecast catastrophic fire danger zones to prepare their bushfire survival plans and consider leaving areas at risk for the safety of lives and property.
