Victoria elevates alert levels amidst bushfire crises triggered by strong winds and extreme heat, while the UK braces for cold weather and potential snow due to an incoming Arctic blast.
Authorities in Victoria, Australia, have escalated their alert level due to a combination of strong winds and extreme heat, with temperatures surging above 40°C and wind gusts hitting 60-80km/h. The severe weather conditions have heightened the state’s bushfire crisis, particularly around Ballarat, as emergency services work to contain fires near the area, including a significant grass fire in Dereel. Residents in affected areas, totaling over 30,000, have been advised to evacuate as the Victorian State Control Centre warns of the dangers posed by the unpredictable and catastrophic conditions. Firefighting efforts are being bolstered by the NSW Rural Fire Service amidst concerns that the windy conditions could exacerbate the situation further.
Simultaneously, the UK braces for a stark shift in weather with an anticipated Arctic blast expected to bring snow showers across various regions, starting with Wales on March 1 and extending towards England and Scotland. The Met Office has forecasted snow accumulation ranging from 0.5mm to 4mm per hour in areas including Cumbria and Scotland. Moreover, the long-range weather outlook from March 3 to 12 predicts stormy conditions with persistent rain and strong winds, particularly in the southern parts of the UK. Despite the unsettled weather, temperatures are expected to remain near or slightly above average, though occasional cold nights are still likely. Authorities and residents in respective regions remain vigilant as they prepare for the potential impact of these extreme weather conditions.
