Archive · 28 Jan 2026
Australia Heatwave Fuels Bushfires, Cuts Power
Australia is experiencing a very hot heatwave that has been going on for five days.
It's so hot that it's causing big fires and making the power go out in many places.
The hottest temperature recorded was 48.9 degrees Celsius, which is very hot.
The fires are burning a lot of land and destroying buildings.
People are working hard to put out the fires, but it's not easy because the heat is making everything worse.
Scientists say that these kinds of heatwaves are happening more often because of climate change.
Record-breaking heatwave in Victoria, Australia, entering its fifth day, with temperatures reaching 48.9°C (120°F).
Heatwave causing widespread bushfires, with six major fires, three of which are out of control.
Power outages affecting 11,000 properties, down from 105,000 the previous day.
Carlisle River fire in the Otways region has burned over 11,000 hectares and destroyed at least 16 buildings.
Authorities warn that the heatwave is driven by climate change, leading to increased frequency and intensity of such events.
- Who
- Residents of Victoria, Australia, and emergency services
- What
- Record-breaking heatwave causing bushfires and power outages
- When
- Ongoing since last Wednesday, expected to ease by the weekend
- Where
- Victoria, Australia, with impacts in New South Wales and Queensland
- Why
- Driven by climate change, leading to extreme temperatures and fire risks
- Location
- Victoria, Australia
- Duration
- 5 days (ongoing)
- Highest Temperature
- 48.9°C (120°F) in Mallee region
- Power Outages
- 11,000 properties without power
- Major Fires
- 6 major fires, 3 out of control
- Carlisle River Fire
- 11,000 hectares burned, 16 buildings destroyed
- Climate Change Impact
- Increased heatwave frequency and intensity since 2000