The heatwave sweeping across the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and New South Wales (NSW) is predicted to intensify from Thursday through the weekend. Canberra is forecasted to experience scorching temperatures, reaching up to 38 degrees Celsius on both Thursday and Friday. Meanwhile, Sydney is bracing for a blistering 42 degrees Celsius on Saturday, marking the peak of this heatwave.

As the mercury rises, bushfires continue to wreak havoc in the region. A significant fire is currently burning over 1,000 hectares at Mount Lawson, situated on the border between Victoria and NSW. Additionally, two uncontrolled fires have broken out along the Hume Freeway at Longwood and further south near Ruffy, posing severe threats to the surrounding areas.

Authorities warn of the potential devastation these fires could bring. “If a fire starts and takes hold, lives and homes are likely to be lost,” they caution, emphasizing the urgent need for vigilance and preparedness.

While a slight reduction in temperature is expected for the southern parts of the state on Thursday, the risk of extreme fire conditions remains high in the northern regions. Jason Heffernan, the chief executive of the Country Fire Authority, underscores the persistent danger.

In addition to the fire risks, the soaring temperatures contribute to the buildup of ozone, which can exacerbate respiratory and other health issues. According to NSW’s Environment Department, ozone levels tend to peak during the hottest part of the day, typically in the mid-to-late afternoon, before declining as temperatures drop.

The ozone, which can exacerbate lung and health issues, generally builds during hot conditions, peaking in the mid-to-late afternoon and easing off as temperatures fall, according to NSW’s Environment Department.