The Heat in Australia.

Manawatu Herald, 14 January 1896, Page 3

The Heat in Australia.

A cablegram from Sydney says :— * A heat wave of great intensity swept across the southern portion of the Continent from west to east during the week. Monday (6th) id a day to be remembered. The atmosphere was like the blast of an open furnace withering up grass and plants. Moreover, the sufferings of the people were more intensified by the presence of smoke from bush fires. The very pavement burned the feet through the boots, and horses fell in the streets sunstruck. The heat luckily was a dry one, with only about 25 parts of moisture in the air. In such fplaces as laundries, work is practically at a standstill. The heat wave returned on Saturday 11th in all its severity, and 100 degrees were registered in the shade. Owing to the moist atmosphere the heat is even more oppressive than on Monday last, and the nights are intensely hot. The thermometer registered over 90deg throughout Saturday. Never before since the official observations were established extending over a period of 37 years, has lOOdeg been reported in Sydney twice in one i week.

Sunday was again oppressive, the highest reading being 09, and is still rising. From the country districts similar reports have bee received. There is great scarcity of water and food, and bush fires have been raging in all directions during the past week. In the Albury district, besides immense damage to crops, grass and fencing, largo numbers of stock have been hemmed in and burned to death. The fires are still spreading rapidly.