Archive · 27 Jan 2026
Heatwave Disrupts Australian Open
It was extremely hot at the Australian Open in Melbourne.
The temperature went over 40°C (104°F), which is very hot.
Because of this, the organizers had to stop some matches and close the roofs on the main courts to keep everyone safe.
Players like Aryna Sabalenka and Alexander Zverev had to play under these tough conditions.
The wheelchair matches were even postponed to the next day.
Fans were advised to wear hats, drink lots of water, and use misting fans to stay cool.
The heat made it hard for everyone, but the organizers did their best to make sure everyone stayed safe.
Extreme heat at Melbourne Park reached over 40°C (104°F), triggering the Australian Open's highest Heat Stress Scale level of 5.0.
Play was suspended on outer courts, and roofs were closed on main showcourts to protect players and fans.
Wheelchair matches were postponed to Wednesday due to the forecasted heat.
Players like Aryna Sabalenka and Alexander Zverev had to compete under the closed roofs to avoid the extreme heat.
Fans were advised to bring hats, drink plenty of water, and use misting fans to stay cool.
- Who
- Australian Open organizers, players, and fans
- What
- Extreme heat conditions leading to suspension of play and postponement of matches
- When
- Tuesday, January 27, 2024
- Where
- Melbourne Park, Australia
- Why
- Due to severe heatwave conditions reaching the highest Heat Stress Scale level
- Location
- Melbourne Park, Australia
- Temperature
- Over 40°C (104°F)
- Heat Stress Scale
- 5.0 (highest level)
- Affected Matches
- Wheelchair matches postponed, outer court play suspended
- Player Affected
- Aryna Sabalenka, Alexander Zverev, Learner Tien
- Date
- Tuesday, January 27, 2024
Sources
Australia heatwave raises bushfire threat as Melbourne braces for hottest day in 17 years
Australian Open: Zverev Blasts Past Tien To Reach Semi-finals
It's getting hot, hot at the Australian Open!
Australian heatwave fans bushfires, towns evacuated, Melbourne endures hottest day in 17 years
