An Australian capital has cooked in its hottest start to summer on record, while fire crews north of the city have battled a suspicious blaze that has destroyed at least one home.
WA’s capital Perth reached 39C just after 1.30pm local time on Monday, easily surpassing its previous December 1 record of 37.4C set in 1979 — 46 years ago.
Thousands headed to beaches to cool off, while others said it was too hot to risk leaving the comfort of their air conditioning.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Arrow
A less intense change is just around the corner, with the mercury expected to drop below 30C for the rest of the week, to 29C on Tuesday and 25C on Wednesday.
Perth has recorded a record start to summer. Credit: 7NEWSPerth residents have headed to beaches across the city to beat the heat. Credit: 7NEWS
It comes as about 100 firefighters work to protect lives and homes in the city of Geraldton, four-and-a-half hours north of Perth.
Crews have been battling the suspicious blaze in stifling conditions — the coastal Mid-West city surged past 40C — as strong winds fan flames.
Schools were closed and thousands of homes and businesses were left without power.
“Our Black Hawks and waterbombers are in the air supporting crews on the ground, with additional firefighting teams deployed from Perth to bolster efforts,” the Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA said.
“Sadly, one home and a shed have been destroyed and with about 130 hectares already burnt.
“We’re throwing everything we have at it to bring the blaze under control.”
The bushfire is impacting neighbourhoods in Waggrakine, Moresby, Spalding, Bluff Point and Sunset Beach.
It is currently at a watch and act level, with a possible threat to lives and homes.
Evacuation centres have been set up at the QEII Seniors and Community Centre, and Northampton Recreation Centre.
People have been told to only take essential items such as medications and identification.
Aussie toddler dies after battle with rare condition: ‘We are shattered’
1 min read
Hacker jailed for stealing intimate images led ‘double life’
1 min read
