Australia's southeastern state of Victoria just turned up the heat – literally. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, thermometers hit a blistering 48.9°C (120°F) in Walpeup and Hopetoun Airport, smashing the region's 2009 record by 0.1°C. 🌡️
This isn't your average summer day – it's Victoria's most intense heat wave since 2009. Melbourne Airport saw 44.1°C temps, while northern areas face days above 40°C despite cooler southern forecasts. Local authorities are urging residents to ‘stay hydrated, stay indoors, and check on neighbors’ as hospitals prepare for heat-related emergencies.
🔥 Why It Matters: Over 1,100 properties near Carlisle River were evacuated Monday as extreme weather risks spiked. Doctors warn that heat exhaustion can escalate rapidly, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable groups.
💡 Pro Tip: The Bureau of Meteorology recommends freezing water bottles overnight – they’ll stay cool longer during daytime adventures. With climate scientists predicting more frequent extremes, this heat wave might be a preview of summers to come.
