Bureau of Meteorology warns of extreme heatwave, with four states expected to hit mid-40s throughout the week

Warnings are in place for four Australian states, as a significant heatwave is expected to hit southern and south-east Australia this week.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns temperatures are set to climb into the mid-40s in some areas across the country.

Over the next few days, large areas of inland WA will be hit with severe heatwave conditions, with the hot conditions spreading east across much of southern Australia.

Kimberley, Pilbara, and Gascoyne regions are expected to experience severe heatwave conditions, with a total fire ban in place for Exmouth.

By mid-week, much of South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria will be hit with extreme weather, with major cities including Melbourne and Adelaide getting up to 41C on Wednesday.

Temperatures in the high thirties to mid forties are expected across South Australia, with Coober Pedy, Maitland, Port Pirie, and Renmark among the locations hardest hit.

On Wednesday, the mercury is set to rise to 44C in Renmark and 45C in Port Pirie.

In Victoria, there is an extreme heatwave warning in place for North East and East Gippsland, with temperatures expected to ease over the weekend.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns of extreme fire risks for Northern Country due to warm and very dry conditions with south to southwesterly winds.

Thursday and Friday is where New South Wales will cop the most heat with temperatures reaching mid-40s in some areas.

39C is expected for Canberra on Friday and Sydney on Saturday.

Tasmania will also experience some heat, with temperatures expected to reach low 30s on Wednesday.

Senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury said we’re likely to see temperatures “8 to 16C above average through parts of South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales”, with temperatures reaching low 40s near the coast and mid-to-high 40s across inland areas.

Ms Bradbury said “the heat isn’t expected to go away until the weekend” for southern parts of Australia, with NSW feeling the heat into “early next week”.

She added that a total fire ban is likely to be implemented across some states.

Stay cool, stay safe

The Bureau has recommends staying in a cool place, closing your windows and blinds, using fans or air-conditioners where possible, and having a plan if fires break out.

“Severe heatwaves can be dangerous for many people, especially older people, babies, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions and people who are unwell,” the Bureau said.

Ms Bradbury said people should always “check in” on their friends and family during extreme weather events like this.