Adelaide is heading into a classic summer stretch, with scorching sunshine to close out the weekend and early week before a noticeable cool change arrives just in time for New Year’s Eve.
Sunday is set to be a hot one across the city, with temperatures climbing to a sweltering 35 degrees under clear, sunny skies. With no rain expected and UV levels reaching extreme, it’s a day best spent pacing yourself, seeking shade, and keeping water close by. Winds will shift throughout the day, starting from the east and northeast before swinging southwesterly by midday, offering some late relief along the coast. Fire danger ratings are sitting at High for the Mount Lofty Ranges and Moderate for metropolitan Adelaide.
The heat intensifies on Monday, with the mercury forecast to peak at a blistering 37 degrees. Sunshine will dominate once again, with dry conditions and extreme UV levels persisting from mid-morning through late afternoon. Winds will turn through the day, eventually strengthening from the south to southwest, which may bring brief relief in exposed areas but also increase bushfire risk. It’s shaping up to be the hottest day of the week, and authorities are urging residents to plan outdoor activities carefully.
Tuesday signals the start of a welcome change. Temperatures drop significantly to a more comfortable maximum of 27 degrees, with partly cloudy skies and a slight chance of rain. While showers are unlikely for most of Adelaide, strong southeasterly winds are expected, which could make it feel cooler, particularly in the afternoon and evening. Despite the drop in temperature, UV levels will remain extreme, so sun protection is still essential.
As the city moves toward New Year’s Eve, conditions continue to ease. Wednesday is forecast to reach a pleasant 26 degrees, mostly sunny with lighter winds. While coastal areas may see isolated light showers, most celebrations are expected to remain dry. This milder weather will be a welcome break for anyone planning outdoor gatherings or city events to ring in 2026.
New Year’s Day brings the warmth back without the extreme heat, with mostly sunny skies and a top of 29 degrees. It’s ideal weather for beach trips, backyard barbecues, or relaxed recovery plans after a late night. Friday and Saturday follow a similar pattern, with temperatures climbing back into the low 30s under mostly sunny skies, rounding out a quintessential Adelaide summer week.
With extreme UV levels forecast throughout the entire period, sun safety remains critical. Whether you’re heading to the coast, attending outdoor events, or simply commuting, hats, sunscreen, and hydration will be key as South Australia navigates another hot start to the new year.
- Sunday 28 December: Max 35°C – Sunny.
- Monday 29 December: Min 23°C, Max 37°C – Sunny.
- Tuesday 30 December: Min 18°C, Max 27°C – Partly cloudy.
- Wednesday 31 December: Min 14°C, Max 26°C – Mostly sunny.
- Thursday 1 January: Min 13°C, Max 29°C – Mostly sunny.
- Friday 2 January: Min 15°C, Max 32°C – Mostly sunny.
- Saturday 3 January: Min 17°C, Max 32°C – Mostly sunny.
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