A new yellow warning for extremely high temperatures comes into effect on Monday, with the mercury expected to climb to 40C in inland areas.
According to the Department of Meteorology, the warning will be in force from 2pm until 5pm, with temperatures expected to peak during the afternoon.
The warning has been issued at yellow alert level.
Detailed forecast
A seasonal low-pressure system is affecting the region.
Monday will be mostly sunny. Winds will initially be variable and light at around 3 Beaufort, gradually becoming southwesterly to northwesterly at 3 to 4 Beaufort, and temporarily reaching 5 Beaufort along southern coastal areas. The sea will be slightly rough.
Temperatures are expected to reach:
- 40C inland
- 31C on the west coast
- Around 34C on the remaining coasts
- 30C in the higher mountains
Tonight, conditions will remain mainly clear, although areas of increased low cloud are expected at times.
Winds will be northwesterly to northeasterly, and southeasterly along northern coastal areas, generally light at 3 Beaufort. The sea will be calm to slightly rough.
Overnight temperatures will fall to:
- 21C inland
- Around 23C along the coast
- 18C in the higher mountains
Tuesday will be mostly sunny, while periods of increased cloud are expected on Wednesday and Thursday.
No significant change in temperatures is forecast over the next three days, with values remaining slightly above seasonal averages.
