‘Unheard Of’ Heatwave Grips South-East, With Temperatures Nearing 50°C
AUSTRALIA, 27 January 2026 – A severe and prolonged heatwave of exceptional intensity continues to scorch south-eastern Australia, pushing temperatures towards 50°C and breaking long-standing records. Following a blistering Australia Day long weekend that saw new highs set in South Australia, the focus now shifts to northern Victoria and inland New South Wales, where Tuesday 27 January is forecast to bring potentially historic temperatures, extreme fire danger, and severe risks to community health.
The Long Weekend Furnace
The heatwave, which began intensifying late last week, reached a peak over the Australia Day holiday. Adelaide shattered its 26 January record, with the mercury hitting 44.7°C, surpassing the previous record of 41.1°C set in 2006. The city also endured its hottest night on record, with temperatures only dropping to 34.1°C. The seaside town of Ceduna in South Australia recorded a staggering 49.5°C, believed to be its highest temperature ever and among the hottest ever recorded on Australia’s southern coastline. In New South Wales, Dubbo reached 46.1°C, its hottest January day.
The Crisis Continues: Tuesday’s Forecast
The reprieve for coastal areas is temporary. On Tuesday 27 January, the core of the heat is forecast to sit over northern Victoria and bordering regions, with temperatures threatening all-time state records.
| Location | Forecast Maximum (27 Jan) | Context & Record Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Mildura, VIC | 49°C | Would be Victoria’s hottest recorded temperature if reached (current record: 48.8°C at Hopetoun, 2009). |
| Ouyen, VIC | 49°C | Could challenge the state record. |
| Hopetoun, VIC | 48°C | Nearing its own state record of 48.8°C. |
| Melbourne, VIC | 44-45°C | Hottest day since the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009. |
| Adelaide, SA | 41°C | Remaining extremely hot following record-breaking weekend. |
| Renmark, SA | 48°C | Extreme heat persisting in the Riverland. |
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that the combination of these extreme temperatures, dry fuels, and gusty north-westerly winds ahead of a late cool change will create dangerous fire weather. Severe to Extreme Heatwave Warnings remain current across large parts of Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and the ACT, with conditions not expected to fully ease until the coming weekend.
Fire Danger and Community Impact
Fire authorities are on high alert. Total Fire Bans are in place across Victoria and parts of South Australia. The situation is particularly dangerous in Victoria, where an active fire in the Otway Ranges near Carlisle River has prompted evacuation warnings for communities including Gellibrand, Kawarren, and Beech Forest. Authorities have reported unconfirmed property loss within the fire grounds.
“The conditions tomorrow mean the fire could spread quickly and unpredictably. We strongly recommend people in affected areas to enact their bushfire plan, and leave early to protect themselves and their families,” said Country Fire Authority Deputy Incident Controller Alistair Drayton. The forecast wind change on Tuesday afternoon is a major concern, as it can cause fires to change direction rapidly.
A Major Health Emergency
Heatwaves are Australia’s deadliest natural disaster. This event is characterised not only by extreme daytime maxima but also by high overnight minimums, which prevent the body from recovering. The Victorian Department of Health, alongside agencies in all affected states, has issued urgent public health advice.
Those at greatest risk include people aged over 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with existing medical conditions (heart, lung, or kidney disease, diabetes, mental illness), people who work outdoors, and those who are socially isolated or homeless.
Key Safety Advice
- Stay Cool: Stay indoors in air conditioning if possible. Use fans, take cool showers, and wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Visit air-conditioned public places like shopping centres or libraries.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and sugary drinks.
- Check on Others: Look in on elderly neighbours, friends, and family members who may be vulnerable.
- Never Leave Anyone in a Car: The interior temperature can become lethal within minutes.
- Know the Signs of Heat Illness: Watch for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headache, excessive thirst, and dark urine. Heatstroke is a medical emergency – call 000 immediately for symptoms like confusion, slurred speech, hot dry skin (no sweating), and a temperature above 40°C.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will this heatwave last?
The severe to extreme heatwave conditions are forecast to persist across inland parts of south-eastern Australia until at least Friday 30 January, with some relief likely for southern coastal areas from mid-week. A significant cool change is not expected to flush the heat out completely until next weekend.
What is the difference between a heatwave and a hot day?
A heatwave is defined as three or more consecutive days of unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures for a location. It is the prolonged nature and lack of overnight relief that makes heatwaves particularly dangerous to human health and infrastructure.
Where can I get the latest warnings?
Stay informed via the Bureau of Meteorology website and BOM Weather app for forecasts and heatwave warnings. For fire emergencies and local advice, monitor the VicEmergency app and website or your state’s emergency services channels. For health advice, call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or in a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
What about my pets?
Pets are highly vulnerable to heat. Ensure they have constant access to cool, fresh water and shade. Never leave them in vehicles or outdoors without protection. Walk dogs only in the coolest part of the day, and be alert for signs of heatstroke such as heavy panting, drooling, and lethargy.