Australian authorities have issued heatwave warnings across several parts of the country as national day celebrations unfold amid extremely hot weather.
On 26 January 2026, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued a heatwave warning covering southern states including Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius until Wednesday.
Reports indicate that last Sunday temperatures reached 48.5 degrees Celsius in South Australia, leading some people to cancel Australia Day celebrations on 26 January to avoid extreme heat and protect their health.
In Adelaide, authorities canceled light shows and parades following warnings for residents to avoid exposure to the sun and extreme heat. Officials noted that while many were disappointed by the cancellations, everyone understood that safety must come first.
Tim Wiebusch, Chair of Victoria's Emergency Management Committee, stated that Victoria has not experienced such intense heat from a heatwave in nearly 20 years, since the severe bushfires and scorching weather in 2009.
Authorities have also issued bushfire warnings due to the hot, dry conditions combined with strong winds. Firefighting units are preparing for emergency situations, including evacuations of residents and property.
Source: BBC