Australia: High temperatures likely across northern and western regions through at least Nov. 25

High temperatures are likely across parts of northern and western Australia through at least Nov. 25. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a heatwave warnings over parts of northern and western Western Australia, central and northern Northern Territory, and northern Queensland through Nov. 25. Maximum temperatures of 36-44 C (97-11 F) are forecast in affected areas over the coming days. Severe heatwave conditions are forecast to ease in the Carpentaria, Gregory, and Daly districts of the Northern Territory and Kimberley District in Western Australia over the coming days and ease slightly in northern Queensland Nov. 22. Heatwave conditions over the west coast of Western Australia are likely to increase in intensity and extend further south over the coming days. Officials could upgrade or expand the coverage of alerts as conditions change.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for bushfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on engines, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.