Australia: High temperatures likely to persist over southern and southeastern regions through at least Nov. 26

High temperatures are forecast to persist across parts of southern and southeastern Australia through at least Nov. 26. Maximum temperatures in excess of 37 C (99 F) are possible in parts of the affected area over the coming days, with widespread highs of 25-35 C (77-95 F) likely. There is expected to be little relief from the heat at night, with overnight lows in excess of 20 C (68 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 parts of southern and western South Australia, central Tasmania, and far southeastern Western Australia from Nov. 20. The area of low-intensity heatwave conditions are expected to shift eastwards into Victoria, southern New South Wales, and Tasmania over the coming days, with severe heatwave conditions possible in parts of eastern Victoria, central Tasmania, and southeastern New South Wales. Isolated pockets of extreme heatwave conditions are possible in parts of far eastern Victoria and far southeastern New South Wales around Nov. 23. As of Nov. 20, the BOM has issued severe heatwave warnings for parts of East Gippsland District in Victoria. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

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.