A significant heatwave will strike southeastern Australia in late November 2025. Weather experts predict temperatures soaring 6-12°C above average across several states. This forecast demands attention from residents and travelers alike.
The Bureau of Meteorology warns this event could strain power grids and create serious health risks. Temperatures will peak in the high 30s in major cities like Adelaide and Melbourne.
Let’s explore what’s causing this November heatwave, which regions face the greatest impact, and how you can stay safe during this extreme weather event.
When Will the November 2025 Heatwave Hit Australia?
The heatwave will develop around November 20, 2025, with Adelaide experiencing approximately 5-6 days of temperatures above 29°C. Peak temperatures will reach 35°C on Thursday and climb to 37°C by Friday, November 22.
Melbourne residents will see temperatures soar into the mid-30s by Friday or Saturday, depending on cloud cover and rainfall patterns. Hobart will also feel the heat with temperatures reaching 28°C on Saturday.
Sydney and Brisbane will experience milder conditions during this period. Sydney’s forecast shows temperatures in the mid to high 20s, while Brisbane will remain cooler than seasonal averages.
The heatwave will bring little overnight relief for Adelaide and Melbourne residents. Minimum temperatures will hover around 22-23°C on Thursday and Friday nights, making sleep difficult and increasing health risks.
The combination of high daytime temperatures and warm nights creates dangerous conditions. The body needs cooler nighttime temperatures to recover from daytime heat stress.
Which Regions Will Face the Worst Heat?
This significant heatwave will primarily affect South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and southwestern New South Wales. Parts of southern South Australia and western Victoria will experience severe heatwave conditions later in the week.
Adelaide will bear the brunt of this heat event with nearly a week of elevated temperatures. The city’s location and geography make it particularly vulnerable to northerly hot air masses.
Melbourne residents should prepare for a sharp temperature spike by the weekend. The city’s urban heat island effect will intensify the already high temperatures in metropolitan areas.
The capital cities in southern and southeastern Australia will see daytime temperatures 6-12°C above average during mid to late November. This significant deviation from normal temperatures defines this as an extreme weather event.
Regional communities in these states should also prepare for extreme conditions. Rural areas with limited access to cooling centers face additional challenges during prolonged heat events.
Communities in fire-prone regions should remain vigilant. These conditions create perfect circumstances for bushfire development and rapid spread across dry landscapes.
What’s Causing This November Heatwave?
A stubborn high-pressure system is driving this heatwave by funneling hot northerly winds across southeastern Australia. This weather pattern traps hot air and prevents cooler systems from moving through affected regions.
Adding to the discomfort, unusually humid air will make temperatures feel up to 3°C warmer than actual readings. This “feels like” temperature significantly increases the strain on the human body.
This event occurs within a broader climate pattern. The Bureau of Meteorology reports sea surface temperatures around Australia have been exceptionally warm throughout 2025, with monthly readings among the highest on record.
The climate outlook for August to November 2025 already predicted warmer-than-average days and nights across much of Australia. This heatwave aligns with those long-term forecasts.
While a potential La Niña influence often moderates temperatures, localized heatwaves can still develop within this broader climate pattern. This demonstrates how complex weather systems interact.
Scientists point to climate change as a factor increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. Australia has experienced a clear trend toward more severe heat events in recent years.
The year 2025 began with a broad heatwave across central Australia, following the nation’s hottest spring on record and third-hottest December ever recorded. This November event continues this concerning pattern.
Health Risks During the November Heatwave
Heatwaves have killed more Australians than any other natural hazard. Emergency calls for heat-related illnesses spike dramatically during these periods.
Anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, though young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions face the highest risk. Symptoms can develop gradually over two days of hot weather.
Heat exhaustion begins with heavy sweating, weakness, cool and pale skin, fast and weak pulse, and dizziness. These warning signs should never be ignored.
Heat stroke represents a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms include high body temperature, red and dry skin, rapid strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness.
The body recovers from daytime heat by cooling off overnight. When nighttime temperatures remain high, as forecast for this November heatwave, the body cannot recover properly.
People working outdoors or exercising during the heatwave period face additional risks. Strenuous activity should be rescheduled to cooler morning hours when possible.
Residents should check on vulnerable neighbors and family members throughout the heatwave. A quick visit can save lives during extreme heat events.
Power Grid Concerns and Energy Impact
When Adelaide and Melbourne experience simultaneous heat on Friday, November 22, with both cities forecast to reach the mid to high 30s, energy demands will spike dramatically. This coincident heat increases strain on the power grid.
Air conditioner use typically surges during heatwaves, creating peak electricity demand. Power companies are preparing for this anticipated load increase.
The added humidity during this heatwave will drive even higher energy usage. When temperatures feel 3°C warmer due to humidity, people set air conditioners lower, consuming more electricity.
Past Australian heatwaves have triggered localized blackouts when demand exceeded capacity. Having backup cooling plans ready remains essential for all households.
Energy providers recommend setting air conditioners to 24-26°C during heatwaves. Each degree lower increases energy consumption by about 10%.
Consider running major appliances during off-peak hours to reduce grid strain. Washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers contribute significantly to household energy use.
Solar panel owners should ensure systems operate efficiently before the heatwave hits. Clean panels generate more power during critical high-demand periods.
How to Stay Safe During the November Heatwave
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty, as this indicates you’re already becoming dehydrated.
Wear loose, light-colored clothing that reflects rather than absorbs heat. Natural fabrics like cotton allow better airflow than synthetic materials.
Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine during heatwaves. Both substances can accelerate dehydration and impair your body’s natural cooling mechanisms.
Keep your home as cool as possible by closing blinds and curtains during the day. Open windows at night if temperatures drop sufficiently.
Use fans strategically to improve air circulation, even when air conditioning is running. This helps distribute cool air more efficiently throughout your home.
Take cool showers when feeling overheated. This rapidly lowers body temperature and provides immediate relief from heat stress.
Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes. Car interiors can reach deadly temperatures within minutes during heatwaves.
Creating a Heatwave Plan for Your Household
Identify the coolest room in your home where family members can gather during peak heat. This becomes your designated cool zone during the heatwave.
Prepare a power outage kit with battery-powered fans, ice packs, and LED lights. Power disruptions become more likely during extreme demand periods.
Know the location of public cooling centers in your community. Libraries, shopping centers, and community buildings often serve this purpose during heatwaves.
The Australian Red Cross recommends preparing for heatwaves before they occur. Check that fans and air conditioners work properly before the hot weather arrives.
Create a communication plan for family members. Establish check-in times for vulnerable household members who live alone or work outdoors.
Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals that don’t require cooking. Using ovens and stoves adds unnecessary heat to your home during already hot conditions.
Consider temporary relocation for extremely vulnerable family members if your home lacks adequate cooling. A short hotel stay could prevent serious health consequences.
Climate Context and Future Outlook
The overall climate outlook shows warmer-than-average days and nights continuing across much of Australia through November 2025. This heatwave fits within that broader pattern.
Sea surface temperatures around Australia have been exceptionally warm throughout 2025. June measurements were 0.96°C above the 1991-2020 average, making it the second-warmest June on record.
While rainfall is predicted to be above average for the eastern two-thirds of Australia due to potential La Niña conditions, this doesn’t preclude intense localized heat events like the forecast November heatwave.
Climate scientists note that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting across Australia. This trend aligns with global climate change projections.
The Bureau of Meteorology continues improving forecast accuracy for extreme heat events. Their seasonal outlooks now provide greater lead time for preparation.
Communities around Australia are developing better heat response plans. These include expanded cooling center networks and improved public warning systems.
Urban planners increasingly incorporate heat mitigation strategies into city designs. Green spaces, reflective surfaces, and shade structures help reduce urban heat island effects.
Official Resources and Staying Informed
The Bureau of Meteorology’s Heatwave Service for Australia provides detailed forecasts and warnings. The 2025/26 season service will begin in early October 2025, just before this November event.
Download the BOM Weather app for real-time alerts and forecast updates. Enable notifications to receive immediate warnings about changing conditions.
The Australian Red Cross offers comprehensive heatwave preparation guidance. Their resources include specific tips for seniors and vulnerable populations.
State emergency services provide localized information during heatwaves. Their websites and social media accounts offer the most current regional advice.
Local councils often establish phone check-in services for vulnerable residents during heatwaves. Register elderly family members for these potentially lifesaving services.
Monitor fire danger ratings daily during the heatwave period. Hot, dry, and windy conditions significantly increase bushfire risks across affected regions.
Health department websites provide detailed information about recognizing and responding to heat-related illnesses. Bookmark these resources before the heatwave begins.
Conclusion: Preparing for Australia’s November Heatwave
The forecast November 2025 heatwave demands serious attention from all Australians in affected regions. With temperatures set to soar 6-12°C above average, proper preparation can prevent serious health consequences.
Stay informed through official channels as the heatwave approaches. Weather patterns can shift, and updated forecasts provide crucial information for planning purposes.
Prioritize health and safety over outdoor activities during this period. Even healthy individuals can succumb to heat stress during extreme events.
Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members regularly throughout the heatwave. Community care becomes essential during these challenging weather events.
By understanding the forecast, recognizing risks, and implementing simple safety measures, Australians can navigate this November heatwave safely. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed.
