Prepare for a surge in temperatures as a heatwave is set to grip Western Australia this weekend, gradually extending its reach across southern, central, and southeastern parts of the country next week.

Weatherzone forecasts that temperatures in Western Australia will soar to the low-to-mid 40s by Monday.

This intense heat is anticipated to move eastward by Tuesday, affecting areas in South Australia and central Australia.

By Wednesday and Thursday, this sweltering weather system is expected to impact Victoria and New South Wales.

While the most extreme temperatures will be experienced inland, major cities won’t be spared from the heatwave’s effects.

In regional Victoria, the city of Mildura could face temperatures climbing as high as 45 degrees on Thursday, highlighting the severity of the heatwave.

“It’s too early to know exactly how hot this air mass will be as it spreads across Australia next week,” Weatherzone meteorologist Ben Domensino said.

“However, numerous computer models suggest temperatures could reach around 45 to 46 degrees in parts of WA, SA, Vic and NSW, with some spots possibly reaching about 48 degrees.

“The hottest weather over the coming week will occur inland, away from Australia’s state capital cities, but the major cities won’t completely escape the heat.”

Heatwave conditions are expected to impact parts of every state and territory next week but the highest temperatures are likely to be felt in WA, South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania.