Australia Faces Extreme Heatwave as National Day Celebrations Begin

Sat Jan 31 2026 13:54:49 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As millions gather to celebrate Australia Day, severe heatwave warnings are issued across multiple states, leading to cancellations of public festivities amid soaring temperatures.

Australia is bracing for an intense heatwave as the nation celebrates Australia Day, with temperatures forecasted to reach alarming highs in southern states. Authorities have canceled several events and issued serious warnings regarding fire dangers. The region hasn't experienced such severe heat conditions in nearly two decades, raising concerns for public safety during the festivities.

Australia is facing an extreme heatwave as millions of residents join in the celebrations for Australia Day. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for soaring temperatures across most of the country, expected to peak on Tuesday with highs reaching the high forties Celsius in southern states like Victoria and South Australia.

In an alarming report, South Australia recorded a blistering 48.5C, prompting officials to caution against fire dangers in various regions. Some scheduled national day events have already been canceled due to safety concerns surrounding the extreme heat.

Australia Day, celebrated on January 26, marks the anniversary of the landing of Britain’s First Fleet in 1788, which commenced an era of colonization. Despite the significance of the day, parades and light shows in Adelaide have been called off as harsh conditions are anticipated.

“While this is deeply disappointing for the community, performers and partners, community safety and wellbeing must come first,” stated organizers regarding the cancellations.

Heat warnings have also been issued across New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory, with many set to remain until Wednesday.

Tim Wiebusch, emergency management commissioner of Victoria, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that this level of heat has not been experienced in nearly 20 years, drawing comparisons to the lead-up to the devastating bushfires of 2009.

As the Bureau of Meteorology warned of extreme fire dangers in parts of South Australia and southwestern Victoria due to dry weather and gusty winds, firefighters in Victoria are mobilizing to address several ongoing blazes, prompting evacuations in certain areas.

The high temperatures have also disrupted the Australian Open at Melbourne Park, where players are struggling with the heat. Jannik Sinner, for example, was witnessed suffering from cramps before authorities temporarily halted matches due to the rising heat, with warnings issued to nearly 80,000 fans to take necessary precautions.

Meanwhile, Western Australia has faced its own challenges with Tropical Cyclone Luana, which has caused damage to homes and resorts but is weakening as it moves inland.

The meteorological bureau urges individuals to seek cool environments including homes, libraries, and community centers, advising everyone to close windows and curtains to mitigate indoor heat.