Record-breaking heatwaves and blackout concerns on the east coast
Power blackouts may hit parts of NSW and Queensland this week, as western Sydney is expected to reach 40C on Tuesday and Wednesday. This severe heatwave is anticipated to bring in the hottest spring weather recorded in four years.
The heatwave is forecasted to sweep across Sydney, the Hunter, and Illawarra regions. Additionally, the central coast, mid-north coast, and south coast are also expected to be affected.
How hot will it get and how long will it last?
The spring heatwave will see temperatures rise towards 40C across Sydney. Parts of western Sydney, including Penrith and Richmond, are predicted to hit 40C on Wednesday. In Sydney’s east, there will be a low-intensity heatwave with minimums of 20C and maximums above 30C. The hottest day is expected to be Wednesday when temperatures could reach 33 degrees.
Gosford on the central coast will experience 31C on Tuesday and 34C on Wednesday, while Nowra on NSW’s south coast will be even hotter, reaching 34C on Tuesday and 35C on Wednesday. These forecasts are above the spring average, with Richmond a significant 12C above its average November maximum of 27C and Sydney 7C above the monthly average of 24C. Temperatures are expected to ease on Friday, with Sydney set to receive rain for the remainder of the week.
Why might there be blackouts?
Increased air-conditioning use and generator repairs at three NSW coal-fired power plants pose a threat to shutting down the grid in some areas. The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) stated that "high temperatures and strong electricity demand, combined with some generation outages, are causing tight electricity supply forecasts in NSW tomorrow and Wednesday afternoon."
Planned outages at several coal plants have been averted after the operator issued a warning that low energy reserves could lead to significant parts of NSW and Queensland experiencing blackouts. Although there were concerns about potential grid outages due to increased air-conditioning use and generator repairs at three NSW coal-fired power plants, AEMO confirmed that the worst has been avoided.
"AEMO remains focused on maintaining electricity reliability in both New South Wales and Queensland this week, as high temperatures are expected to drive strong energy demand amid significant generation unavailability in NSW," the statement read. However, there are still concerns that power outages could occur.
Here’s how you can stay safe during a heatwave
People have been cautioned to stay safe during the severe heatwave, which can be particularly dangerous for certain groups such as pregnant individuals, babies, older adults, and those with medical conditions. NSW Energy Minister Penny Sharpe urged residents to rethink their power usage, suggesting that they do not need to have every light on in the house or keep their air conditioning at low temperatures.
Residents have also been encouraged to rethink their energy and air conditioning usage during this period to alleviate pressure on the system, but only if it’s safe for them to do so. Some tips for coping with a heatwave include using air conditioning or a fan, wearing light and loose-fitting clothing, keeping the skin wet, taking cool showers or foot baths, and avoiding vigorous physical activity.
Stay safe during this heatwave and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you.
FAQs:
- What are the expected temperatures during the heatwave?
- Temperatures are expected to reach 40C in parts of western Sydney, with Sydney experiencing highs above 30C.
- Why might there be blackouts during the heatwave?
- Increased air-conditioning use and generator repairs at coal-fired power plants could lead to tight electricity supply forecasts.
- How can I stay safe during a heatwave?
- Stay hydrated, check on vulnerable individuals, and reduce energy consumption to avoid potential blackouts.