Severe heatwave sweeps across Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia

A significant heatwave is poised to affect regions of Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia as the new year approaches, prompting widespread alerts due to temperatures soaring 8C to 12C above average.

As the weekend progresses, parts of Western Australia are bracing for scorching temperatures. Marble Bar in WA's Pilbara region anticipates a blistering 49C, with the next six days forecasted to hover around 45C. An extreme fire danger warning has been issued for the Burrup region in the state's north-west.

It is going to get hot in Queensland and Northern Territory 

In the Northern Territory, uncomfortably warm nights are predicted, with Tennant Creek projected to reach 43C and Katherine likely to record 40C, ushering in challenging conditions for residents.

Queensland is not set to escape the heatwave either, with temperatures expected to hit 47C in Longreach, 43C in Wilson, and 37C in Gympie. The situation is further compounded for storm-affected areas, as many struggle without power, water, or phone reception following Christmas Day storms.

People are wondering when power will come back on

Nicole Fraser-Lyons, a resident from Gold Coast hinterland, highlighted the challenges faced during this period, whilst talking to The Guardian. "We've been trying to avoid being at home because it's so hot. When you're at home, you're sweating to death and thinking, 'when is the power going to come back on'. We just don't know," Fraser-Lyons expressed.

Relief from the heatwave is anticipated by Sunday in Queensland and the middle of the following week in the Northern Territory and Western Australia.

Things are harder for the areas which recently witnessed storms 

Amidst the heatwave, parts of Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria continue to grapple with the aftermath of severe storms over the Christmas period. The storm-related death toll in Queensland stands at seven, while Victoria mourns the loss of three individuals due to storms and flash flooding on Boxing Day.

However, some reprieve is in sight for southern states, as cooler conditions are forecasted over the next few days, alleviating concerns of extreme heat alerts.

The heatwave alerts across multiple states emphasize the necessity for residents to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and stay informed about changing weather conditions as authorities work to manage the challenges posed by the extreme weather.