2024 Australia heat wave

2024 Australia heat wave
TypeStationary high-pressure area
AreasSouth Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Northern Territory, Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia, ACT
Start date15 December 2024
End dateOngoing
Peak temp. 47.2 °C (117.0 °F), recorded at Birdsville, Queensland on 26 December 2024

Beginning in mid-December 2024, Australia experienced an intense heatwave affecting multiple states and territories, with temperatures exceeding 45 °C (113 °F) in numerous populated settlements. The heatwave brought temperatures significantly above average for mid-December, with several regions experiencing temperatures 12-16 °C higher than typical seasonal values. The event was characterized by both extreme daytime temperatures and unusually warm overnight conditions, with many areas not dropping below 30 °C (86 °F) throughout the day and night.