Heatwave Alerts Issued Across Australia on Australia Day

Australia is facing a major heatwave with severe to extreme temperature warnings issued across much of the country as millions of residents celebrate Australia Day (January 26, 2026). The intense heat has prompted authorities to urge the public to take precautions, with record-breaking temperatures forecast and bushfire dangers rising sharply.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued widespread heatwave warnings for multiple states and territories, including Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory, with temperatures expected to exceed 40 °C in many regions and even approach 50 °C in some inland areas.

Several cities and towns are facing conditions that could challenge historic heat records. Adelaide is forecast to experience one of its hottest Australia Days on record, with temperatures near 45 °C, while inland parts of South Australia and Victoria may reach near 49 °C. Other areas across the southeast and inland are also under severe heat warnings for consecutive days.

The intense heat has heightened the threat of bushfires and total fire bans in fire-prone regions. In Victoria, emergency warnings have been issued, and evacuation orders are in place for hundreds of homes near the Otways National Park due to fires fuelled by dry conditions and extreme heat.

Fire authorities have declared total fire bans and warned residents of dangerous conditions in both South Australia and Victoria as strong winds and high temperatures raise the risk of fire spread.

Authorities are urging Australians to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and remain vigilant to changing fire and weather conditions.

Support services, including cooling centres and additional resources for vulnerable populations such as people experiencing homelessness, have been activated in several states to help mitigate health risks associated with extreme heat.

Emergency services, meteorologists, and local governments continue to monitor the evolving situation as the heatwave is expected to persist through the week.

Sources: ABC News, The Courier Mail, Lismore City News, news.com.au, The Guardian