Temperatures will reach past 40°C this week across southern Australia. South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales endure the most intense heat. Saturday brings extra dust from the Sahara. The dust will lower air quality in several towns.
Northerly winds will push bushfires more quickly in New South Wales and Victoria. This raises the risk of fresh fires starting. People should consume water often, avoid being outside during peak heat, and monitor fire warnings. Experts fear the mix of heat, dust and wind will challenge rescue crews.