Cooler temperatures to hit Sydney, but the heat will be back

Sydney sizzled along with all the snags on barbecues over the Australia Day weekend but a cool reprieve is in sight today before the heat returns in time for the return to work and school.

Sydney sizzled along with all the snags on barbecues over the Australia Day weekend but a cool reprieve is in sight for Monday before the heat returns in time for the return to work and school.

After the mercury rose over 40C in part of the city and state on Saturday, Sunday was only marginally cooler with a Sydney-wide top of 39.1C in Camden and 43.7C in Bourke.

The heat sent many people searching for cool ways to enjoy the long weekend.

Lauren Hufnagl and her friend Guy Rowles took some time out for a quick dip at Mahoon Pool in Maroubra. Picture: Julian Andrews

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Even though Lauren Hufnagl, 23, of Maroubra had to work on Sunday, she still managed to squeeze in a swim at Mahon Pool with her friend Guy Rowles, also 23.

“I love the hot weather, love the beach, love the sun, love socialising in the heat,” Ms Hufnagl said

“It does get too hot sometimes but as long as I’ve got water I’m good — I think most Australians are like that.”

The Sydney forecast for the next couple of days.

About 1300 residents of Pennant Hills, Westleigh and Thornleigh were forced to swelter during the hottest part of yesterday when a tree took out power lines, causing a two-hour outage.

While Monday is forecast to reach just 27C in the city, temperature are set to rise again from Tuesday.