SYDNEY: Large parts of Australia are groaning under extreme heat with temperatures approaching 50 degrees Celcius.
Bushfires triggered evacuations in the south-east of the country on Monday.
The states of South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland are particularly badly affected, the German Press Agency (dpa) reported.
Many Australian media reports are referring to it as one of the hottest weather episodes in years, and warnings of potential dangers for the population and emergency services have been issued.
The past few days have already seen temperatures of over 40 degrees in some places. The Guardian reported on Monday that meteorologists had advised people to stay indoors if possible, and to ensure they remained hydrated.
Temperatures of around 49 degrees were expected in several locations in Victoria on Tuesday.
Temperatures are also expected to rise to around 45 degrees in the city of Melbourne – where the Australian Open tennis tournament is currently being held. This would almost equal the previous record of 46.6 degrees, which was set in February 2009.
Temperatures in parts of the state of South Australia are likely to climb to more than 49 degrees. The city of Adelaide is forecast to reach 46 degrees. Such a prolonged heatwave is unusual even by Australian standards.
Several bushfires intensified in Victoria. Uncontrolled fires spread in the Otway Ranges south-west of Melbourne, where residents from more than 1,100 households were urged to seek safety. – BERNAMA-dpa
