An intense heatwave is gripping Queensland, Australia, with extreme humidity levels making the scorching temperatures feel even more oppressive. The heatwave follows a cooler period in the state, and comes as snowfall is reported in other areas of the country.
The Queensland Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for extreme heat across much of the state, with temperatures expected to reach around 37C in some areas, and humidity levels making it feel even hotter. The heatwave is expected to last for several days, with no relief in sight.
The heatwave has caused a number of issues, including bushfires. Local fire services are on alert, with crews on standby to respond to any fires that may break out. People are being urged to remain vigilant, and to report any fires to authorities immediately.
On Friday morning, temperatures above 37C were reported in Brisbane and Logan, and extreme levels of humidity were experienced throughout Queensland, with Brisbane reaching the maximum level of 24C.
In light of the warm weather intensifying bushfire conditions, the fire danger is rated high in most parts of the region in the upcoming days. Moreover, a fire is erupting in Miles, which is resulting in thick smoke; hence, authorities have warned citizens to take caution and stay away from the smoke.
Overnight, the Alps of both NSW and Victoria experienced their first snowfall of the year as temperatures drastically dropped to sub-zero levels.
The snowfields at Kosciuszko National Park were coated in a light layer of snow and a hazy fog descended just before 8am this morning, as evidenced by footage from the cameras.
