URGENT UPDATE: Australia braces for a mixed bag of weather this Christmas Day, with heavy rainfall and severe heat impacting various regions. Forecasts indicate rain could mitigate the risk of bushfires in many capital cities, but Western Australia (WA) remains on high alert for extreme temperatures and fire dangers, as confirmed by Andrew Gissing, CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia.
In recent weeks, Australia has witnessed a “reasonably active” bushfire season, particularly affecting New South Wales. Gissing reported that approximately 16 homes have been lost in NSW, with a similar toll in Tasmania and additional losses in Western Australia. Tragically, the season has also resulted in fatalities among firefighters.
Gissing warns that heatwave conditions will hit parts of WA over Christmas, especially in the southwest, where temperatures could soar to a scorching 41°C. He explained that the combination of strong winds and low humidity heightens fire danger ratings.
Meanwhile, the forecast shows that only Canberra (27°C) and Adelaide (25°C) will enjoy relatively mild conditions. In contrast, cities like Sydney (23°C), Melbourne (17°C), and Brisbane (34°C) are expected to experience showers, while Darwin could face a torrential 50mm downpour.
In addition to bushfire risks, widespread heavy rainfall across northern Australia raises concerns of potential flooding. Gissing noted, “Other than bushfires, you’ve also got widespread heavy rainfall across northern Australia, which will lead to potential flooding.”
In a developing situation, a Category Two cyclone is forming in the Indian Ocean and could impact the Cocos Islands on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, further complicating weather conditions.
As families prepare to celebrate, the mix of severe weather events poses significant challenges and risks for many Australians. Stay tuned for real-time updates as the situation unfolds.
