Weather News

SA bakes as heat builds

Temperatures soared across South Australia today as parts of the state experienced their hottest October day in years.

Northerly winds swept into the state today ahead of an approaching low pressure trough, dragging hot air south from the nation's interior.

Oodnadatta sweltered to a high of 42 degrees, 12 above average, while Coober Pedy reached 40, the hottest October day in five years for both centres. Moomba managed to register the hottest day for October in four years, also reaching 40.

Gusty winds and low humidity combined with this heat, causing severe fire danger in the north. A fire weather warning was issued in the North West and North East Pastoral districts for the remainder of Thursday.

It was significantly cooler in the south, where Adelaide's temperature reached a comfortable top of 27 degrees, just five warmer than usual for this time of year.

The intense heating that is occurring through central Australia is due to an abundance of sunshine. Sea surface temperatures in the Pacific and Indian Oceans surrounding Australia are causing less moisture to be drawn inland, leading to reduced cloud cover.

Friday will be another scorcher, with temperatures reaching the low 40s across the state's north. Adelaide will be spared though, once again topping out at 26 degrees.

- Weatherzone

© Weatherzone 2012

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