Hot winter days

Australia is experiencing a winter day of extremes as temperatures peak in central areas, winds whip the south and the threat of bushfires climbs.

Temperatures in the mid-30s are forecast for northern NSW and southern Queensland, as firefighters brace for an early start to the bushfire season.

Brisbane's August maximum temperature record of just under 33 degrees Celsius was reached. 10 degrees above normal..

Warmer weather has also been felt overnight in Sydney, where temperatures were twice the monthly average, and Canberra where 12 degrees Celsius set a new record for the warmest August night.

Much higher temperatures have led to a total fire ban in southern Queensland with authorities warning of a very high to extreme fire danger.