Perth Prepares for Exceptional March Heatwave Not Witnessed in 40 Years
Perth braces for a heatwave with temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius for the next five days, a record-breaking occurrence not seen in 40 years. Meanwhile, a tropical low may form a cyclone but is expected to remain off the coast.
Perth is set to endure an extraordinary heatwave, the likes of which have not been experienced in March for 40 years. The forecast indicates that maximum temperatures will soar above 35 degrees Celsius for the coming five days. Additionally, meteorologists keep a close watch on a tropical low developing off the north-west coast of Western Australia, which could potentially evolve into a cyclone.
This unusual weather pattern extends from Exmouth in the northern part of the state down to Perth and over to Esperance, affecting various coastal communities. Over the next three days, severe heatwave conditions are anticipated across these regions, with Perth experiencing consistently high temperatures. Forecaster Jessica Lingard from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) noted that the last time Perth faced such heat was approximately 40 years ago on March 25, 1985, when temperatures also exceeded 37 degrees Celsius.
While extreme heat during this time of year is not unprecedented, the current forecast is remarkable: four consecutive days above 37 degrees Celsius and five days above 35 degrees Celsius. Ms. Lingard advised vulnerable community members to exercise caution and take necessary precautions. She emphasized that while the heat may not pose a threat to everyone, it serves as an important reminder to mitigate risks, particularly for those working outdoors.
In terms of the impending cyclone, the tropical low has the potential to develop as it moves south-westward throughout the week. If it reaches cyclone status, it will be named Courtney; however, it is not projected to impact the Australian mainland significantly. The BOM forecasts indicate that this system will remain well offshore, moving west towards the south of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands as the weekend approaches.
In summary, Perth is facing an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius for five consecutive days, a phenomenon not seen in 40 years. As a tropical low develops off the western coast, it carries the potential to form a cyclone named Courtney, yet it is unlikely to affect mainland Australia. Residents are urged to take appropriate precautions to handle the extreme temperatures safely.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
