Tasmania will swelter through severe heatwave conditions this weekend, with temperatures expected to nudge 30 degrees in many places.
The Bureau of Meteorology raised warning levels across the state, with main centres in Hobart, Launceston, St Helens and Oatlands to be impacted.
“Severe heatwave conditions are expected to extend more broadly across the state from the weekend and persist into early next week,” the BOM said.
Extreme level heatwave conditions are also being forecast for multiple peaks around the state.
The Tasmania Fire Service has responded to the heatwave forecast by suspending all fire permits across the state.
Southern Regional Chief Simon Pilkington said the service is keen to avoid any potential fires over the weekend and into early next week.
“The soil dryness index is much higher for this time of year in Tasmania and there is no significant rainfall predicted during the forecast heat wave period,” he said.
“A fire burning in the Snug Tiers in the southern region is also drawing heavily on resources, including heavy machinery and aerial fleet.”
“Any additional fires may result in depleting resources and increased response times.”
Ouse is expected to be the warmest spot on Saturday, reaching a sizzling 31 degrees. Launceston and Queenstown won’t be far behind, both expected to hit 29 degrees.
Huonville, near the Snug Tiers fire, is on track for 28 degrees, while Hobart will reach 26.
Swansea will see 25 degrees and Devonport is set for a more moderate 23.
