Climate change is already increasing the intensity and frequency of heatwaves in Australia. Heatwaves are becoming hotter, lasting longer and occurring more often.

Our latest report finds hot weather in Adelaide, Melbourne and Canberra has already reached levels predicted for 2030.

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The report examines the impact of climate change on heatwaves and hot weather in Australia and around the world.

“When looking at heatwaves over the last 60 years things are getting worse. In a stable climate that would not be happening” — Prof. Tim Flannery

FIVE KEY FINDINGS

Climate change is already increasing the intensity and frequency of heatwaves in Australia. Heatwaves are becoming hotter, lasting longer and occurring more often. Climate change is making heatwaves worse in terms of their impacts on people, property, communities and the environment. Heatwaves have widespread impacts, ranging from direct impacts on our health to damage to ecosystems, agriculture and infrastructure. The climate system has shifted, and is continuing to shift, increasing the likelihood of more extreme hot weather. Record hot days and heatwaves are expected to increase in the future Limiting the increase in heatwave activity requires urgent and deep reductions in the emissions of greenhouse gases.

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