‘Severe to extreme’ heatwave conditions forecast for the NT, before late week reprieve: BOM

SWELTERING heatwave conditions could see the mercury rise into the low 40s in some Territory towns this week, but the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting relief from the scorching temps later in the week.

• Heatwave to hit the Top End this week, BOM forecasts

A REPRIEVE from scorching temperatures in much of the Northern Territory won’t arrive until later this week, with Territorians warned to stay hydrated amid a heatwave.

Senior Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Chris Kent has warned inland towns such as Katherine can expect temperatures above 40C before rain moves in toward the back end of the week.

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“For the next couple of days we’re expecting severe to extreme heatwave conditions over the Top End,” Mr Kent said.

“There will be very little cloud cover and rainfall.

“Even the overnight temperatures are above average, so they’re not what we usually see.”

Mr Kent warned that fire dangers, particularly around Katherine, were elevated, and urged people to take precautions to avoid heatstroke.

“Everyone should remain hydrated and stay out of the heat of the day if that’s possible,” he said.

Temperatures are expected to be in the severe to extreme heatwave range in the NT this week. Picture: Glenn Campbell

But Mr Kent said wetter conditions were on the way.

“There’s a trough forecast to move north through the Territory this week,” he said.

“By Friday and Saturday, the chances of showers and storms are starting to increase, especially over the western Top End.”

Temperatures in Darwin are forecast to hover around the mid-30s for most of this week, and conditions are expected to be mostly sunny until Thursday when storms are predicted.

Katherine is forecast to swelter through 42C days for the next seven days.

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Alice Springs is expected to see heatwave conditions peak at 38C on Tuesday and Wednesday before temperatures ease back to about 32C for the weekend.