Warning issued as major heatwave grips Sydney

Friday, 5 December 2025 06:03

Temperatures above 40 degrees are expected today - but it's forecast to be even hotter tomorrow.

Temperatures are expected to top 40 degrees in parts of Sydney today as a major heatwave grips the city.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a top of 35 degrees for the CBD, but in western centres such as Penrith that could rise further.

The heat is expected to peak early in the afternoon, with the 35-degree mark forecast for 1pm.

However, any falls afterward will be slow - by 7pm, the mercury is expected to have only just dipped below 30, with the prospect of a sweltering night ahead.

Temperatures are expected to surge again tomorrow, and head even higher, with a forecast maximum of 36 degrees in the mid-afternoon for the city.

The BoM issued a heatwave warning yesterday that extends through to tomorrow.

"Severe heatwave conditions are expected to peak on Friday and Saturday before easing on Sunday as a cooler change extends across the State," the warning read.

The surging temperatures will not be confined to Sydney, with other affected regions including the Hunter, Illawarra, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, and Snowy Mountains.

Total fire bans are in place for a number of western and southern districts including the Lower Central West Plains, and the Northern, Eastern, and Southern Riverina.

The fire danger for much of the state, including Greater Sydney, the Hunter, and Illawarra, is expected to reach "Extreme" tomorrow.

People are urged to find ways to stay out of the heat today, including by drawing blinds or awnings early to keep the heat out of their home.

Fans and air-conditioners are also recommended.

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