Temperatures will climb past 40°C this week across southern Australia. South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales undergo the extreme heat. Saturday brings extra dust from the Sahara. The dust will lower air quality in several towns.
Northerly winds will accelerate bushfires at speed in New South Wales and Victoria. This increases the risk of additional fires starting. People should drink water often, avoid being outside during peak heat, and monitor fire warnings. Experts fear the mix of heat, dust and wind will challenge emergency teams.