Melbourne Swelters as Victoria Hits Record-Breaking Heat Amid Fires
Temperatures in Victoria have shattered records, with the tiny town of Walpeup reaching an astonishing 48.9 degrees Celsius, surpassing the state’s previous high from 2009. Just half an hour later, nearby Hopetoun matched that historic reading. Melbourne itself soared past forecasts, with Laverton hitting 45.6 degrees and Point Cook reaching 45.3, pushing residents and emergency services to their limits.
The heatwave isn’t just numbers on a thermometer—it’s creating a dangerous and complex emergency across the state. Bushfires continue to rage, particularly in the Otway Ranges, where the Carlisle River fire remains at an emergency level. Thousands of residents are under warnings and some towns like Walpeup have been almost completely deserted as people flee the extreme conditions. Firefighters are working tirelessly, with support from interstate and international crews, including personnel from Canada and New Zealand, all facing the brutal combination of high heat, smoke and unpredictable winds.
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Health authorities are warning that the worst may still be ahead. Continuous exposure to temperatures this extreme prevents the body from cooling naturally and risks of heat illness, dehydration and even heatstroke are high. Vulnerable populations—the elderly, young children and people with pre-existing medical conditions—are at the greatest risk. Ambulance callouts have surged, particularly in regions like Loddon Mallee, where breathing-related emergencies jumped 67 percent and paramedics responded to incidents involving children locked in vehicles. Authorities are urging everyone to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors and check on neighbors and loved ones.
The heat is also taking a toll on infrastructure and wildlife. Power outages are affecting tens of thousands of residents across Victoria, while water supplies in some towns, like Gellibrand near the Otways, have been compromised due to the fires. Wildlife services are on high alert as native animals struggle to cope with soaring temperatures. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast that extreme heat will continue in parts of New South Wales and Queensland, with some inland areas potentially hitting near 50 degrees Celsius.
This heatwave is a stark reminder of the growing intensity of Australia’s climate extremes, highlighting not only the immediate dangers of fire and heat illness but also the wider pressures on emergency services and communities. Authorities are closely monitoring conditions, but the combination of relentless heat and active fires makes vigilance essential.
Stay informed as this situation develops, follow official warnings and take every precaution to protect yourself, your family and your community as Victoria battles through this historic and life-threatening heatwave.
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