Australia Scorches Under Record Heatwave: Towns Hit 50°C as Wildfires Rage

Southeastern Australia is grappling with a severe heatwave that has pushed temperatures close to 50°C (122°F), forcing residents to battle scorching conditions and protect properties from rapidly spreading wildfires.

Victoria recorded its hottest day in 16 years, with towns including Hopetoun and Walpeup reaching 48.9°C (120°F), while Melbourne sweltered past 45°C (113°F). Neighboring New South Wales and South Australia also saw temperatures near 50°C, approaching the national record of 50.7°C set on the West Australian coast in 2022.

On a farm near Gellibrand, a small town about 200 km southwest of Melbourne, local resident Karlee Smith rode a quad bike to guide sheep away from encroaching flames. “We actually had to ride through where the fire was burning. Grass fire, it’s patchy, it’s hot and it’s on fire,” Smith said. Meanwhile, her father and brother fought the fire with a water tanker attached to a tractor, discovering a male koala fleeing burned bushland, exhausted and in shock.

The extreme heat is among the deadliest forms of severe weather, and scientists warn that climate change is amplifying the intensity and duration of heatwaves. Combined with high humidity, these conditions can reach the limits of human survivability.

“I had been thinking, every time summer comes around… is it Gellibrand’s turn to burn?” Smith reflected, describing the ongoing drought and fire risks.

Authorities continue to warn residents to stay vigilant, monitor fire alerts, and take precautions as the region faces relentless heat and wildfire threats.

Keywords: Australia heatwave, Victoria wildfire, record temperatures, extreme heat, climate change