Wind Warnings Issued for NSW

Residents in parts of New South Wales are being warned to brace for damaging winds, while much of Australia swelters under intense heatwave conditions.

The State Emergency Service (SES) has forecast wind gusts of up to 90km/h to hit the South Coast this afternoon before moving up to Sydney and the Hunter region. Average wind speeds will hover between 60 and 70km/h, with potential for falling trees and debris.

“Strong winds could bring down trees and powerlines and damage properties,” SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said. He urged residents to secure loose items around their homes and download the Hazards Near Me app to stay updated on warnings.

Sydney is expected to feel the brunt of the winds mid-afternoon, with Newcastle likely impacted by the early evening. Thunderstorms are also possible tonight in parts of Sydney and the Hunter, though no severe storm warnings are currently in place.

Heatwave Grips Half the Country

At the same time, a heatwave is scorching large parts of NSW, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Brisbane residents are in for a sweltering 36°C today, with inland areas like Dalby, Emerald, and Goondiwindi expected to hit over 40°C. The heat will stick around through most of the week, with little relief as overnight temperatures remain in the high 20s. A milder southerly change is expected to cool eastern Queensland by the weekend.

Northern NSW is also feeling the heat, with places like Byron Bay, Inverell, and Tweed Heads likely to reach extreme temperatures. Central Sydney is set to hit 35°C today, while western suburbs like Penrith could climb to 39°C. Further inland, towns like Bourke and Dubbo are forecast to exceed 40°C.

Thankfully, a cool change should bring some relief to parts of NSW this afternoon, possibly accompanied by thunderstorms in the evening.

In Western Australia, it’s the third heatwave of the summer. Temperatures have soared past 40°C in Perth, with areas like Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, and Mount Magnet also baking under the extreme heat. The good news? Temperatures are expected to drop slightly by Saturday.

Fire Danger and Power Usage

Fire authorities in both Queensland and NSW are warning of increased fire dangers due to the hot, dry conditions. Meanwhile, Western Australia is seeing record power usage as residents crank up their air conditioning to cope with the heat.

Despite the heatwave, WA Premier Roger Cook said the state’s power grid is holding up well. Perth hit over 40°C on Monday, marking one of the city’s hottest days this summer.

Whether it’s wind, heat, or fire danger, staying prepared and keeping an eye on updates will be key in the coming days!