Heatwave takes hold in the state

“HARSH” heatwave conditions gripped large parts of Queensland on Sunday with temperatures over 40C in parts of the state’s northwest.

It is expected to stay hot on Monday with temperatures reaching 39C in Charters Towers, and 38C in Hughenden.

Northerly winds have brought warm weather to the entire state, the Bureau of Meteorology’s Felim Hanniffy said. The hottest places in Queensland are the northwest communities of Julia Creek, Mount Isa and The Monument, which were sitting at 40.1C at 1.40pm Sunday, while Gatton at 31.4C the southeast’s hottest location.

“Temperatures are generally pretty warm, even harsh particularly across northern areas,” Mr Hanniffy said.

“They’re generally above average for this time of year.”

Mr Hanniffy said heatwave conditions would continue across Queensland’s northwest over coming days.

“We are looking at the first real bit of heat of the season of these warmer months.”