Blackout warning as major heatwave to impact millions this week

Parts of NSW and Queensland could see power outages as a heatwave sweeps in this week.

A days-long heatwave is forecast to sweep across Sydney, with temperatures nearing 40 degrees, while parts of Queensland’s Peninsula District can expect temperatures in the mid to high 30s.

Officials are warning of “tight electricity supply forecasts” in both states tomorrow and Wednesday, with millions expected to turn to air conditioners for relief.

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO_ said it “has alerted the energy industry and is working with power station operators and transmission businesses to boost electricity availability”.

Sydney’s west is expected to reach up to 35 degrees today.

It was 34 degrees st Penrith by 2pm.

It’s set to rise to 38 degrees tomorrow and then a sweltering 39 on Wednesday.

Temperatures will drop later in the week but are expected to remain in the high 20s through to the weekend.

The Bureau of Meteorology has also forecast a high chance of light rain in the city later in the week.

“Severe heatwaves can be dangerous for many people, especially older people, babies, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions and people who are unwell,” the Bureau said in its warning.

“Seek a place to keep cool, such as your home, a library, community centre or shopping centre.

“Close your windows and draw blinds, curtains or awnings early in the day to keep the heat out of your home.

“If available, use fans or air-conditioners to keep cool.”

Locations listed as like to be heavily affected included Batemans Bay, Camden, Campbelltown, Hornsby, Liverpool, Nowra, Penrith, Parramatta, Richmond and Scone.

In Queensland, Aurukun, Mapoon, Thursday Island and Weipa will be the hottest.

Brisbane and surrounds will remain a slightly cooler 30 degrees maximum.

Melbourne reached a high of 37 degrees on the weekend before a cool chance brought relief.