As the UK shivers in sub-zero temperatures, Australia is enduring a blistering heatwave, with parts of the country becoming the hottest places on the planet. Temperatures have soared to a staggering 46.4°C (115.5°F), prompting emergency declarations and fears of catastrophic bushfires.
Record-Breaking Heat Grips the Nation
The extreme conditions were recorded on Tuesday, 6th January 2026, with the remote town of Marble Bar in Western Australia's Pilbara region reaching the peak of 46.4°C. Other areas, including Learmonth Airport and Leonora Aero, were close behind at 46.2°C. This intense heat has officially made Australia the hottest country on Earth this week.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued stark warnings, stating the scorching temperatures could persist until Friday and may represent the most severe heatwave since the Black Summer bushfires of 2019/20. During that crisis, fires burned uncontrollably for three months, claiming at least 23 lives.
Emergency Declarations and Fire Warnings
The situation is already critical. Three Australian states have declared states of emergency, with around 3,000 soldiers deployed to assist. Bushfires are raging dangerously out of control along the east coast, fanned by 50mph winds and temperatures that have exceeded 48°C in some fire zones.
Meteorologist Angus Hines warned that Wednesday would be "an absolute scorcher," with Victoria and South Australia bearing the brunt. He forecast temperatures of 41°C in both Melbourne and Adelaide, with inland areas potentially hitting 45°C.
"It will be very hot along the Murray River as well," Mr Hines added, highlighting the widespread nature of the heat dome.
Major Cities Brace for Intense Weekend Heat
The heat is set to build towards the weekend in key population centres. Melbourne and Canberra are expected to see temperatures spike on Friday. Sydney is preparing for its warmest day of the week on Saturday, with the CBD forecast to hit 39°C.
However, the city's western suburbs, including Penrith and Parramatta, could endure a truly oppressive 43°C or 44°C. "Those western suburbs [are] looking warmer," Mr Hines confirmed.
Beyond the immediate health risks, authorities are concerned about "pretty significant fire weather." The combination of extreme heat, dry conditions, and breezy winds creates a tinderbox environment. Lightning strikes in south-eastern Australia pose an additional threat of sparking new blazes.
There are also warnings of strain on the national power grid and infrastructure networks as millions of Australians simultaneously switch on air conditioning to seek relief from the relentless heat.
