Australia's Heat Wave: Tennis Courts to Ghost Towns

Australia is experiencing a severe heat wave, with temperatures nearing 50 degrees Celsius. Rural towns in Victoria recorded near-record highs, affecting daily activities and events like the Australian Open tennis tournament. Authorities are cautioning the public as heat-related risks persist and temperatures are expected to remain high through the weekend.

Parts of Australia experienced record-breaking temperatures approaching 50 degrees Celsius, as an intense heat wave gripped the nation.

Rural towns of Hopetoun and Walpeup in Victoria recorded highs of 48.9 C. Public safety warnings were issued due to the ongoing threat posed by three forest fires.

Even Melbourne Park, hosting the Australian Open, was transformed into a ghost town as organizers enacted extreme heat protocols, including using retractable roofs and postponing matches to protect athletes and attendees from the conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)