Temperatures will soar across large areas of New South Wales today, with heatwave conditions prompting total fire bans in many parts of the state and an air quality warning remaining in place for Sydney.
Sydney is expected to hit a top of 38°C today. Photo: 123rf
People in Sydney with respiratory conditions were told to take care yesterday after higher-than-normal levels of toxic ozone gas were reported, caused by a combination of the hot, still weather and pollution.
Sydney is expected to hit a top of 38°C today, with the city's west expected to see temperatures as high as 40° and 42° on Friday.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is forecasting temperatures in many other areas including Newcastle, Cobar, Moree and Nyngan to be above 40° today.
Temperatures are set to peak on Friday, with Bourke, in the state's north-west, expected to reach 47°.
"It isn't typical, it does not happen very often but it does happen - although these kinds of temperatures we can get as well in February or even March," BOM senior meteorologist Peter Zmijewski said.
The hot weather prompted the Rural Fire Service (RFS) to impose a total fire ban on the Greater Sydney, Greater Hunter, Central Ranges, Southern Slopes and North Western districts.
"There are some areas getting some unbelievable temperatures," RFS inspector Ben Shepherd said.
"Grass fires obviously will start easily and spread rapidly.
"We're now seeing the introduction of those strong winds. What we don't need now is any fire activity."
Surf Life Saving NSW warned people to stay hydrated and avoid heat stress, with thousands expected to flock to beaches over the coming days.
But the BOM had some good news, saying people across the state should see a small amount relief over the weekend.
"I'm saying a little bit because the temperatures will still remain at the low to mid-30s," Mr Zmijewski said.
"Showers and thunderstorms are also expected in the afternoon [Saturday].
"Cloud cover and a bit of precipitation should help with that [relief]."
- ABC