Parts of Australia brace for a significant heatwave with temperatures soaring above average, as Pakistan deals with severe weather disruptions and the UK faces uncertainty with forecasted snow and rain.
Parts of Australia are facing a significant heatwave across the upcoming long weekend, with high temperatures forecasted in Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued heatwave warnings with Melbourne expecting peaks of 38C, Adelaide possibly reaching 40C, and Launceston in Tasmania projected to hit the low 30s. Despite the high temperatures, there’s a relatively low risk of wildfires due to weaker winds, though high to extreme fire danger ratings are predicted for most Victorian districts. This weather pattern is caused by a blocking high-pressure system leading to heat accumulation.
In response to the anticipated high temperatures, South Australia has initiated a code red to assist the homeless and vulnerable, while Tasmania also faces high fire danger ratings. Authorities are advising residents to stay cool, hydrated, and sun-safe.
Concurrently, Adelaide is preparing for a significant heatwave lasting until the next Tuesday, with temperatures expected to be up to 10C above the average. This marks the longest March run of high temperatures in four years for the region. A low-intensity heatwave alert is in place for much of southern Australia, with Adelaide under severe heatwave warnings. Residents are advised to use air conditioning to combat the heat, especially since overnight temperatures are not expected to drop below 25C.
Meanwhile, a western disturbance has brought intense rainfall and heavy snow to Afghanistan, north-west India, and Pakistan, causing severe disruptions and claiming at least 35 lives in Pakistan, including 22 children. The Pakistan army was mobilized to clear snow off highways and assist stranded civilians.
In the UK, new weather maps forecast a vast snow and rain system stretching to Spain, with snow and downpours predicted to hit the UK and potentially spread to Spain by the end of March. Parts of southern England and Wales, including London and Plymouth, are expected to experience this weather shift. A Sudden Stratospheric Warming event may trigger wintry conditions, though any snow is likely to melt quickly as temperatures rise. The Met Office anticipates unsettled weather continuing into mid-April, with mild, wet conditions expected to prevail.
