Australia: High temperatures likely to persist over southeastern regions through at least Nov. 29 /update 1

High temperatures are forecast to persist across parts of southeastern Australia through at least Nov. 29. The highest temperatures are forecast over eastern New South Wales. As of early Nov. 25, the BOM has issued severe heatwave warnings for parts of Hunter, Metropolitan, Illawarra, South Coast, and Southern Tablelands districts in New South Wales. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. Maximum temperatures of 35-39 C (95-102 F) are likely over the Hunter and Metropolitan districts and 26-34 C (79-93 F) over the Illawarra, Southern Tablelands, and South Coast districts. There is expected to be some relief from the heat at night, with overnight lows of 16-24 C (61-75 F) possible in places. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has forecast low-intensity heatwave conditions (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across the rest of the affected area, with the heat contracting to the far eastern coast of New South Wales Nov. 28 before easing Nov. 29.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for bushfire growth throughout the affected regions. 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 vehicles, 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.