Australia sees ‘red’ amid soaring temps
PERTH, Australia – A code red was issued in South Australia on Friday as temperatures hit 108 degrees Fahrenheit in the state’s capital, while firefighters battling wildfires in New South Wales established containment lines in cooler conditions before an expected heatwave this weekend.
South Australia last week had 86 homes destroyed after wildfires flared in catastrophic conditions, as its capital Adelaide endured a heatwave peaking at a sizzling 115 F. There was respite during the Christmas period, but oppressive conditions returned Friday and were expected to last through Monday.
The heatwave prompted the South Australian government to declare a code red, which aims to ensure the homeless kept cool and hydrated. Services include shelter options and additional food services.
“Keeping vulnerable South Australians safe and well in the extreme heat forecast over the next few days is our priority,” South Australian Human Services Minister Michelle Lensink said.
The fire danger rating was severe in Adelaide, while the rest of the state was mostly between high and very high.
About 1,300 firefighters in New South Wales on Friday established containment lines in cooler conditions. Around 70 fires, however, continued to burn across the state with almost half of them not contained.
“Because these fires are large, they’re complex and they’re very prone to the elements. Once these weather conditions turn around, we know we’re going to see increased fire activity,” New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said.
“So they’re just giving their all to shore up protection and trying to consolidate and contain them as much as they can.”
Authorities are bracing for conditions to deteriorate, with Sydney forecast to hit 88 F on Sunday before reaching 95 F on Tuesday.
The city’s western suburbs could reach 106 F on Sunday.
Fire danger ratings remained very high in northwestern New South Wales, and high in Sydney.