Australia is battling an extreme heatwave that has sent temperatures soaring to record levels across multiple states, straining power grids and increasing wildfire risks. The extreme weather is the latest in a series of climate-related challenges facing the continent.

Temperatures in some areas have exceeded 45 degrees Celsius, making outdoor activity dangerous and prompting health warnings for vulnerable populations. Hospitals are reporting increased cases of heat-related illnesses.

The heatwave has triggered rolling blackouts as air conditioning demand overwhelms the electrical grid. Energy officials are urging residents to conserve power while scrambling to prevent wider outages.

Fire services are on high alert as the extreme heat creates perfect conditions for bushfires. The memories of the devastating 2019-2020 Black Summer fires remain fresh.

For Gen Z Australians, the heatwave represents the new normal of climate change, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and intense.