The Ultimate Guide to Heat Wave in Australia of 2025

How Hot Is the Heat Wave in Australia?

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, a heat wave is three or more days of unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures. Australian heatwaves average 37°C to 42°C. During heat waves, emergency calls from people suffering from heat-related illnesses increase. Anyone can be harmed, although the young and old are most in danger.

Overexposure to heat causes sickness. This may happen slowly over two days of hot weather. Act swiftly to prevent heat stroke, which can be fatal. Heat waves are categorised by intensity into three kinds.

•  Low-Intensity Heat Waves: Summer brings more low-intensity heatwaves. Most people can handle heatwaves.

•  Severe Heat Waves are rare and harder for vulnerable people including the elderly and those with medical issues.

•  Extreme Heat Waves are unusual. Even healthy people can get them if they don't stay cool. People who work or exercise outside are also more susceptible.

What Is the Hottest Temperature in Australia?

Cloncurry, Queensland, Australia, registered a temperature of 53.3°C (128°F) on January 16, 1889, utilising a nonstandard temperature screen. Thus, the Oodnadatta recording represents the extreme temperature maximum.

Heatwave in Australia 2024

Starting in mid-December 2024, Australia was hit by a severe heatwave that affected many states and regions. In many populated areas, temperatures rose above 45 °C (113 °F), much higher than usual for mid-December. In some places, temperatures were 12 to 16 °C higher than usual for the time of year.

Meteorologist Dean Narramore of the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) says that the heatwave was caused by a weather front that spread heat, dry air, and strong, powerful winds across the country. People said the weather wasn't typical for the time of year, especially in the Northern Territory, where monsoon weather is common at this time of year.

When Is the Hottest Months in Australia?

In Australia, the seasons are defined by arranging the calendar months in the following way: Spring encompasses the three transitional months of September, October, and November. Summer comprises the three warmest months: December, January, and February. Autumn encompasses the transitional months of March, April, and May.

Heatwave in Australia Today

The year 2025 commences with an extensive heatwave enveloping central Australia, perpetuating a trend of extraordinary temperatures that saw the hottest April in the nation's history and the third-hottest December ever. Temperatures in the southeastern states are forecasted to rise as much as 12 degrees Celsius over the January average this weekend, increasing the likelihood of significant fire outbreaks in South Australia and Victoria.

In eastern New South Wales, temperatures will reach their zenith on Monday, with highs approaching 40°C in Western Sydney. A cool change will then alleviate the heat and jeopardise the fifth India-Australia test match on Tuesday.

While the south-east endures heat, the tropics remain stagnant, with little indication of the essential summer monsoon. The persistent lack of monsoon westerlies is atypical at this stage of the wet season, leading to the latest onset in at least 25 years while also hindering tropical cyclones from approaching our shores.

A heatwave advances east across Australia again, mirroring the trend observed multiple times throughout December. This week, a new wave of extreme temperatures emerged in Western Australia, with maximums reaching up to 17°C above average on Thursday, including a peak of 43°C in Esperance on the southern coast – the town's hottest January day in 12 years.

(Date Source: Bureau of Meteorology)

Why Is It So Hot in Australia Now?

In Australia, heat waves have a higher mortality rate than other natural hazards, including bushfires, cyclones, and floods. From 1900 to 2011, extreme heat accounted for over fifty per cent of all fatalities resulting from natural hazards, excluding disease epidemics.

In the past six decades, the country has observed a decrease in cold days, alterations in rainfall patterns, and an increase in the frequency of hot weather. The Bureau of Meteorology characterises 'hot days' as those exceeding a maximum temperature of 35°C. Heatwaves' intensity and frequency are associated with climate change.

Heatwaves in Australia result from a combination of high-pressure systems, climate change, and various climatic drivers.  

•  High-Pressure Systems: When they move into an area, high-pressure systems draw hot air from the upper atmosphere downwards. If the system is stationary or moves slowly, the heat can persist for several days.

•  Climate Change: Human activities, particularly the combustion of fossil fuels, have led to significant and enduring alterations in weather patterns and temperature trends. These changes have increased the frequency, duration, and intensity of heat waves in Australia. Future heatwaves are anticipated to become more severe along the East Coast.  

•  Additional Climate Drivers:

El Niño is a complex climate pattern characterised by the periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon significantly affects global weather patterns and can lead to various environmental impacts. This climate driver can intensify extreme temperatures.

Drought conditions can exacerbate heat waves.

The urban heat island effect contributes to the occurrence of heat waves.

Marine heatwaves refer to intervals of significantly elevated ocean temperatures that can affect species distribution and reproductive patterns. 

Heat waves can manifest throughout Australia. Heat waves in different regions are assessed by comparing the forecasted maximum and minimum temperatures for each three-day interval in the upcoming week (e.g., Monday – Wednesday, Tuesday—Thursday) against the 'normal' temperatures for that location during the corresponding time of year, as well as against observed temperatures from the preceding 30 days.

What Risks Can Heat Wave Cause?

Extreme heat or heat waves refer to intervals of abnormally high temperatures. In Australia, excessive heat events cause more fatalities than other natural catastrophes. All individuals are susceptible to heat-related health issues, making it essential to understand the associated dangers, identify vulnerable populations, and learn methods for preparation and protection for oneself and others.

•  For Advice: call 13 43 25 84

•  In an Emergency: call 000

Who Will Be at Risk in a Heatwave?

Everyone is susceptible to heat-related illnesses in really hot weather. If you don't control heat properly, your risk rises. Regularly check in with those who are most vulnerable. The following groups are particularly vulnerable.

Elderly

Elderly people may not have access to or afford air conditioning. They may also have medical conditions (such as diabetes, dementia, kidney disease, or heart disease) that make them more susceptible to heat-related sickness.

Babies or Young Children

Young children's small bodies can't easily adjust to shifting temperatures. The younger the child, the sooner they will display dehydration or heat stress symptoms. Sick children require extra care in hot weather, even for simple ailments like a cold or hay fever.

Pregnant Women

Pregnant and lactating women have a higher metabolism, so they must eat and drink more to keep healthy. When it is extremely hot, they are more likely to become dehydrated if they do not consume enough food and water.

People with Medical Conditions or Medications

Due to their medicinal treatments, people with medical disorders are more likely to dehydrate in hot weather. Many medical therapies can help reduce the amount of fluid (water) in the body. People with chronic medical illnesses such as dementia, delirium, and mental health issues may require assistance in making healthy eating and drinking choices.

These treatments include antihistamines for allergies, beta-blockers for blood pressure and heart, diuretics for fluids, and anti-depressants or anti-psychotics.

People with Intellectual Disability

People with intellectual disabilities or special needs frequently rely on others to help them comprehend their emotions and needs. When it's hot, this happens more regularly, and they require help eating and staying hydrated.

People Who Are Active Outdoors

Physically active people, such as craftsmen and athletes, are accustomed to pushing their bodies to their limits. When it is hot, people's limits may be reduced and generally underestimated; therefore, they must take extra precautions to stay hydrated.

Heatwave-Related Illness

All individuals are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, making it essential to recognise and respond appropriately to symptoms if observed or experienced. Heat-related illnesses encompass dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, with symptoms varying among individuals.

Dehydration

Dehydration refers to the condition resulting from excessive loss of body fluids, which can lead to various physiological impairments. It is critical to maintain adequate hydration for optimal bodily functions. The following are the symptoms of dehydration:

•  Dizziness

•  Tiredness

•  Irritability

•  Thirst

•  Bright or dark urine

•  Loss of appetite

•  Fainting

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions from excessive sweating in elevated temperatures. They represent the least severe type of heat-related illness. The following are the symptoms of heat cramps:

•  Profuse sweating

•  Painful muscle cramps, usually in the legs and abdominal muscles.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion results from excessive loss of water and salt via perspiration, increasing body temperature. It may occur in hot or humid environments or during intense physical activity. The following are the symptoms of heat exhaustion:

•  Pale complexion and profuse sweating

•  Fatigue, weakness and restlessness

•  Headache

•  Dizziness

•  Nausea

•  Vomiting

•  Weak rapid heart rate

•  Breathing fast and shallow

•  Muscle cramps

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a severe medical condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, leading to a significant rise in body temperature and potential organ dysfunction. The following are the symptoms of heatstroke:

•  Confusion

•  Poor coordination or slurred speech

•  Hot, dry skin, possibly not sweating

•  Fast and shallow breaths

•  Rapid pulse

•  Extreme fatigue

•  Headache

•  Fainting

•  Vomiting, diarrhoea and loss of consciousness.

Get Ready for Heat Waves in Australia

If world temperatures keep rising, heat waves are expected to happen more often, be hotter, and last longer. 435 people died during the worst weather between 1895 and 1896, which affected most of the country. Four hundred thirty-two people died in Victoria and South Australia in 2009 because of the heat. That's why Australia needs to get ready for heatwaves right now.

Tip 1: Get Your Home Ready for Heatwave

Make ice cubes and put cool packs in the fridge or freezer. Put cool water into spray bottles to use on your face and body. Ensure the fridges, freezers, fans, and air units all work well. Putting food and water on hand in bulk. 

You can make your home cooler by adding cross breezes and cool places, using blinds or curtains to block the sun from the windows, using light-coloured window covers, awnings, and shade cloth, and getting your air units checked out before summer starts.

Tip 2: Pack an Emergency Kit

Making a first aid kit for hot weather with water, electrolyte solutions, cooling blankets, and sunblock will give you the tools to stay safe and comfortable.

When temperatures rise, cooling down becomes very important. Solar technology can help weak people immediately during heatwaves. Solar power can save lives by running cooling centres, emergency services, and mobile aid units.

We highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator, which combines Jackery Solar Panels with Portable Power Station to turn sunlight into electricity. This generator is very important during heatwaves because it gives you a reliable source of electricity that isn't tied to the power grid, which can get overloaded during high heat events. This way, you can keep cool with fans and refrigerators.

Tip 3: Understand How to Manage Your Medical Conditions

If being in very hot weather will hurt your health, here's a guide to how much water you should drink when it's hot, especially if you usually don't drink much. What medicines you take could also hurt your health in the heat.

Tip 4: Know Who You Will Check On

People in this group could be neighbours, friends, family, or people who live alone. Anyone can be affected by heatwaves. However, some people in our community are especially weak and need extra care during heat waves. Among these are:

• Children and babies

• Older people 

• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Pets

• People who work outside or play sports 

• People with asthma or who are on certain drugs

If you are in one of these sensitive groups or are watching out for someone who is, there are a few easy things you can do to stay cool and hydrated during heat waves.

Tip 5: Know Local Cool Public Places

The local cool public places during a heatwave usually include libraries, shopping malls, movie theatres, swimming pools, community centres, and designated cooling centres, typically air-conditioned places where people can cool off. Check with your city government to find precisely where these places are.

Tip 6: Keep Food Safe in Hot Weather

To keep food safe during a heatwave, store it in a cool, shady place, use coolers filled with ice or gel packs, and limit time at room temperature. Plan meals to cook when it's cooler, and always check food temperatures to ensure they stay below the "danger zone" of 40F to 140F.

How to Keep Cool at Home?

Always make plans for a heat wave ahead, whether it's putting in a wall unit or a portable AC or making a list of other places you can go if it gets too hot. The good news is that there are easy things you can do to feel better when the temperature rises too high.

Tip 1: Encourage Air Flow

By opening windows on different sides of the house, you can get rid of warm air stuck inside and let cooler air in. This should be done when the air outside is cooler than the air inside. This usually happens at night or early in the morning for a few hours. If you live in an apartment with only one window on one side, open the doors and use a fan to get air moving.

It is common for hot air to get stuck as it rises from inside your home. If you have loft vents or windows, open them to let some of the heat out. If you don't, you might be trying to sleep on the second floor, and the hot air could get stuck there. If the loft hatch is opened, air can rise further and away from the bedroom.

Tip 2: Use Fan or Other Cooling Equipment

There are many strong ways to beat the heat. The flow of air in the attic has a big effect on both the temperature inside and the amount of energy used. A fan in the attic moves old air out of the house and brings in fresh air from outside. Using attic fans can also help you save money on cooling costs since heat rises to the roof. 

Heat pumps do much more than just heat. They also offer air conditioning and temperature control. Like air conditioners or refrigerators, heat pumps use power and refrigerant to move heat from one place to another.

Evaporative cooling fans, also known as swamp coolers, can be moved around or mounted in a window. They are a great way to cool a room and save money on heat and electricity. The fans work by pulling warm air into pads that are wet with water. The air is then cooled by evaporation and pushed back into the room.

Cooling appliances can use a lot of power during a heat wave, so it might be better to use a solar generator to charge them instead. We suggest the Jackery Solar Generator, which can hold up to 12 kWh and is powerful enough to charge a wide range of electronics, such as your air conditioner, ceiling fan, portable fan, and more. It can also power other things if the power goes out because of a heatwave in Australia.

Tip 3: Limit Hot Activities

When ovens and stoves are in use, they give off a lot of heat into the house. Avoiding hot foods like sandwiches and salads during the hottest parts of the day can help you save money on your energy bill by stopping your body from making heat that isn't needed.

Other things like washing machines and stoves can also produce heat, so try not to use them when it's very hot outside. Things plugged into the wall can also give off heat, so make sure they are unplugged when not in use.

How to Keep Cool Outdoors?

It is advisable to refrain from outside activities during the day's peak heat; nonetheless, there are instances when this is unavoidable. When exposed to direct sunlight, keep in mind:

Apply sunblock consistently and reapply it regularly.

Don't use a cap to shield your head.

Take frequent rests indoors or in shaded areas to prevent heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Donning light-hued, loose-fitting attire will aid in maintaining a cool temperature.

Additional strategies for maintaining comfort outside during a heatwave are available.

Tip 1: Drink Water Regularly

Drink 2 to 3 litres of water daily at consistent intervals, regardless of thirst sensation. Consult your physician if you are on a restricted fluid intake. Restrict consumption of alcoholic beverages, carbonated soft drinks, sports drinks, tea, and coffee. Maintain your usual dietary habits, but focus on consuming cold foods, especially salads and fruits. Refrain from consuming high-protein foods that elevate body temperature and exacerbate fluid loss.

Tip 2: Use Cooling Devices

Numerous electric cooling systems, such as neck fans, cooling cloths, and portable fans, are available to assist in maintaining a comfortable temperature outdoors. This fan necessitates a standard AC adapter for charging, thus requiring proximity to an electrical outlet or the usage of a portable power station or solar generator, such as Jackery Portable Power Stations or Solar Generators when the battery depletes. Fortunately, you may operate this fan while charging if you have access to an electrical outlet.  

Tip 3: Wet Your Skin Outdoors

Heat dissipates through the skin, the body's biggest organ. The more the surface area of your skin you can cool, the more advantageous it is. Numerous techniques exist for cooling your skin in excessively hot conditions.

Soaking a T-shirt and maintaining its moisture can be highly beneficial. Purchase cooling spray. Take a cool shower—avoid extreme cold to facilitate a gradual cooling process. Rapidly lower your body temperature by submerging your hands and feet in cold water. The wrists and ankles include several pulse points with blood arteries near the skin, facilitating a more rapid cooling process.

Tip 4: Limit Physical Activities 

Maintaining your regimen despite high temperatures is crucial, but occasional adjustments may be necessary. Engaging in an early morning run may seem arduous while comfortably ensconced in bed; nevertheless, exercising under the intense midday sun poses significant risks, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke.

Tip 5: Eat Light Meals

In hot weather, consuming light, well-balanced, and regular meals is advisable. Foods with elevated water content, such as strawberries, cucumbers, celery, and lettuce, contribute to hydration and thermoregulation during summer. Additionally, you may consume foods with elevated fluid content, such as soups and stews, which aid in hydration levels.  

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Emergencies

When temperatures rise significantly, access to cooling becomes a critical survival issue. Solar technology can offer prompt assistance to at-risk communities during heatwaves. Solar energy can be a lifesaver by powering cooling centres, emergency services, and mobile aid units.

Here, we recommend Jackery Solar Generators, for their durability, resistance to harsh temperatures, and safe operation during crises. These portable battery chargers use ChargeShield technology to protect devices from voltage fluctuations. Due to elevated electricity costs for powering cooling devices during a heatwave in Australia, a solar generator could provide charging using solar energy at no cost.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus, with a capacity of 1264 Wh and a 2000W output, boasts the highest output among comparable items, accommodating 99% of devices, especially for cooling appliances in a heatwave. This all-in-one solar generator is adaptable and scalable in capacity, designed to fuel your life. Additionally, you may manage your power station via the Jackery APP.

The following are the features that may help you during a heatwave in Australia:

Expandable Capacity for Charging More Appliances: With the expandable capacity from 1.26 to 5 kWh, it is powerful enough to charge more cooling appliances at home (to save electric bills) or outdoor activities (camping, hiking, etc.).

Fast Solar Charging: The Solar Generator 1000 Plus combines SolarSaga 200W solar panels with Explorer 1000 Plus. It only takes 9 hours to recharge the power station fully with a solar panel, and the pass-through charging ability makes it possible to charge the power station and cooling appliances at the same time.

Without Noise & Pollutants: Discover unparalleled serenity with our silent, emission-free technology. Participate in transforming sustainability as we proudly introduce the industry's first entirely eco-friendly packaging. This means you can safely and quietly use this solar generator at home, enhancing your energy solution with Jackery.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus accommodates additional battery packs, enhancing its capacity from 2 kWh to an impressive 12 kWh. This makes it ideal for charging appliances (not only cooling equipment) indoors and outdoors. 

The following are the features that may help you during a heatwave in Australia:

Portable Powerhouse for Indoors & Outdoors: with the expandable capacity and over 3000W power output, the 2000 Plus covers all your power needs in a heatwave. As mentioned above, the most crucial way to cool your home is by using cooling appliances, whether ceiling fans or heat pumps. Also, when you are camping or off-grid living in hotter conditions, it can provide a consistent power supply for your appliances.

Higher Conversion Rate: Six SolarSaga 200W solar panels can fully recharge the Explorer 2000 Plus in only 2.5 hours. The panels are TÜV Class II certified consumer-grade PV products (IEC TS 63163) that convert more sunlight effectively.

AI-Enabled Speed Charging & Protection: The Jackery AI variable-speed charging solution optimises electricity intelligently and offers dual physical protections with 62 mechanisms for excellent safety during energy use.    

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

First Aid Tips for Heatwave-Related Illness

High temperatures can significantly impact physical health. During a heatwave, monitoring for heat stroke and heat exhaustion symptoms is crucial. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are often conflated, yet heatstroke poses a significantly greater risk. Understanding how to manage heatwaves in Australia is considerably more critical.

What to do if you are dehydrated:

In cases of dehydration, it is advisable to consume ample water or to alternate with diluted fruit juice, precisely a mixture of one part juice to four parts water.

Refrain from consuming alcohol and beverages with elevated levels of caffeine and sugar.

Relocate to a cooler environment, recline, and eliminate superfluous garments.

Consult a medical professional if you begin to experience symptoms of illness.

What to do if you have heat cramps:

Cease physical activity and remain seated in a cool environment.

Enhance hydration levels.

Take a few hours of rest before resuming activity.

Engage in stretching and apply gentle massage to the affected muscles.

If cramps continue, seek medical assistance.

What to do for heat exhaustion:

To address heat exhaustion, move to a cooler environment, lie down, and eliminate unnecessary clothing.

Consider taking a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath to reduce body temperature. Additionally, apply moist, cool cloths to the forehead, wrists, sides of the neck, underarms, and groyne area, and use a fan continuously.

Administer small sips of cool water, diluted fruit juice, or cordial, using a ratio of 1 part juice to 4 parts water.

If recovery is not prompt or vomiting ensues, obtain emergency medical assistance.

What to do for heatstroke:

Heatstroke constitutes a medical emergency. Dial triple zero (000), followed by:

Assess the individual's airway, breathing, and pulse. If the person is unconscious, place them in a lateral position and initiate CPR if necessary.

If feasible, relocate the individual to a cool environment, position them supine, and remove any unnecessary clothing.

To reduce body temperature, apply moist, cool cloths to the forehead, wrists, sides of the neck, underarms, and groyne area while ensuring continuous airflow with a fan. Administer small sips of fluids if the individual is conscious and capable of swallowing.

Medications should only be administered if prescribed by a physician.

Caring for babies and children:

Facilitating hydration in infants and children involves providing consistent access to plain water and promoting its consumption before the onset of thirst.

Children aged 5 to 8 should consume approximately 1 litre of water daily.

Children aged 9 to 12 years require 1.5 litres of water daily.

Individuals aged 13 and older should consume 2 litres of water daily.

Refrain from consuming beverages that promote dehydration, particularly those with elevated sugar, salt, and caffeine levels.

For breastfeeding mothers, it is advisable to increase the feeding frequency and maintain adequate hydration.

Provide bottle-fed infants with cool, boiled water in between feedings.

Provide children with small, regular meals while minimising the intake of hot food.

Final Thoughts

Heat waves have always occurred in Australia, and they happen every summer. But the current event that is hitting a lot of inland Australia is not like this at all. Knowing about heat waves in Australia is important to better deal with them.

During a heatwave, the best ways to stay cool are to drink a lot of water, wear light-coloured, loose clothing, take cool showers or baths often, avoid challenging activities during the hottest parts of the day, and cool your home with fans or air conditioning by blocking direct sunlight with blinds or curtains. If you're outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.