Severe heatwave hits southern Australian states amid extreme fire danger

A dangerous heatwave is moving east across southern Australia, bringing temperatures into the 40s and prompting extreme fire danger ratings across large parts of South Australia and Victoria, officials say.

Large parts of South Australia and Victoria are experiencing a dangerous heatwave that has pushed daytime temperatures into the 40s and produced extreme fire danger ratings. The Bureau of Meteorology measured high temperatures by mid-morning and forecast peak heat through the early afternoon and into the evening. Fire agencies described the landscape as very dry and said crews, volunteers and some additional aircraft have been mobilised. Authorities announced total fire bans in several districts and asked communities to follow official bushfire measures. Key details: - Mid-morning readings included about 35C in Melbourne and 38C in Adelaide, with forecasts of highs around 42C for the two cities and local peaks higher in some towns. - Some inland locations were forecast to reach mid-to-high 40s, with specific towns warned of temperatures above 45C in coming days. - South Australia and Victoria have large areas at extreme fire danger ratings, and several districts are under total fire bans. - Fire services reported the landscape is very dry and said additional aircraft and volunteer crews have been brought on to support responses. - The Royal Australian College of GPs was reported to advise staying hydrated and limiting exposure during peak heat hours. Summary: The heatwave is producing extreme temperatures and has led agencies to declare extreme fire danger across much of South Australia and Victoria, with crews and extra aircraft mobilised. Undetermined at this time.