Australian authorities have issued heatwave warnings for most of the country as millions celebrate Australia Day.
Temperatures are expected to peak on Tuesday, reaching the high forties Celsius in the southern states of Victoria and South Australia, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
On Sunday, South Australia recorded temperatures as high as 48.5C, prompting warnings of fire danger in various parts of the country.
Some national day celebrations on Monday have been cancelled out of safety concerns.
Australia Day - celebrated on January 26 - marks the anniversary of the 1788 landing of Britain's First Fleet, which commenced the era of colonization.
In Adelaide, an anticipated Australia Day parade and light show have been cancelled due to the extreme heat forecast. Event organizers stated, While this is deeply disappointing for the community, performers and partners, community safety and wellbeing must come first.
Heatwave warnings are not only confined to Victoria and South Australia but also encompass New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory.
Many of the heat warnings are expected to remain in place until Wednesday.
Tim Wiebusch, Victoria's emergency management commissioner, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, declaring, We haven't seen heatwave conditions like this in Victoria for almost 20 years.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of extreme fire dangers due to very hot and dry weather combined with gusty winds across parts of South Australia and much of southwestern Victoria.
Elsewhere, firefighters in Victoria are battling multiple fires, leading to evacuations and threats to properties.
This intense heat has also impacted the Australian Open at Melbourne Park, where player Jannik Sinner suffered cramps and play was temporarily halted due to extreme conditions. Nearly 80,000 fans were advised to stay hydrated and seek shade.
In Western Australia, Tropical Cyclone Luana recently struck, causing damage before weakening. Residents are advised to keep cool indoors and avoid the heat as conditions remain dangerous.
