Australia El Nino in September: Challenging Heat to Bring Potential Health Risk, Fire Concerns

Australians experienced challenging heat, according to the latest reports. Climate change, El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole can likely worsen the heat.

Recently, Central Australia experienced raging bushfires. Extreme fire dangers were issued in Barkly North, Darwin and Adelaide River. The threat of bushfires and wildfires is likely due to dry vegetation, extreme heat and strong winds.

Australians are advised to check the weather and the heat. It is best to avoid prolonged exposure to heatwaves or limit any outdoor activities. Older adults and people with medical conditions are at risk of the deadly heat.

Challenging heat in Australia

(Photo : by STEVE CHRISTO/AFP via Getty Images)
Australia's scenic Sydney Harbour. The recent report showed that Australia could experience challenging spring heat due to the development of strong El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole.

The arrival of El Nino can help unleash the deadly and unseasonal heat in Australia, bringing record-breaking heat to the region. The September heatwaves can cause life-threatening heat and health concerns.

One of the dangers of extreme is the emergence of bushfires. As a result, residents are advised to observe the fire restrictions, particularly in the forest.

With El Nino, bushfires can become frequent or intensify. The phenomenon can likely cause reduced precipitation, warmer temperatures and increased fire risks.

Drought conditions can also occur, affecting crop growth and supplies. Increasing ocean temperatures can cause devastating effects on aquatic animals and coral reef systems.

Furthermore, the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) can contribute to the alarming heat in Australia. It can affect the weather in the country. The Positive event of IOD can bring less rainfall and warmer sea surface temperatures.

On the other hand, the negative event of IOD can unleash cooler temperatures and more rainfall events.

How climate change influenced the weather

Climate change can affect the global weather. It can intensify drought, wildfires, storms and hurricanes. The rapid intensification of extreme weather events can unleash severe impacts on communities, making it more difficult to prepare or recover.

Wildfires and drought are both linked to human-induced climate change. The all-time high greenhouse gas emissions can likely worsen the effects of climate change.

Dry vegetation is favorable to cause deadly fires. On the other hand, climate change contributes to the frequency of hurricanes.

Warmer surface temperatures can rapidly develop hurricanes.

Also Read: Global Impact of Extreme Weather Events: Climate Change Can Intensify Frequent Hurricanes, Drought, Wildfires

Staying safe from extreme heat in Australia

Homeowners should prepare for the possible health and environmental impacts of extreme heat. Here are essential reminders to stay safe from heatwaves in Australia.

Australians should regularly monitor the latest heat forecasts this month. When the heat worsens, it is advisable to stay at home.
Checking the body temperatures of their family members can save them from potential signs of heat-related health concerns.
Wearing comfortable clothes and avoiding strenuous tasks can prevent the possible risks of heatwaves.
Homeowners should check their cooling system at home.
Outdoor workers should always bring bottled water at all times. It is important to get some shade to prevent prolonged exposure to heat.