The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for a heatwave from Thursday, 18 December 2025 through to Saturday, 20 December 2025.
Heatwaves bring increased risk for many people, including babies, children, seniors, pregnant and/or breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions, and people who are already unwell.
The Victorian Department of Health recommends that people can prevent the impacts of a heatwave and stay cool by taking the following actions:
- If at home and if available, use a fan or air-conditioner to cool down, or take a cool shower
- Wear light and loose clothing
- Keep skin cool by using a spray bottle or damp cloth
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, including carrying water when outdoors
- Have a plan to stay cool, including cancelling or rescheduling activities to a cooler time of day
- Check the weather forecast regularly
- Check in with family, friends, and neighbours
Alpine Shire Council facilities are also available to people who are unable to stay cool within their homes:
- Library hours across Bright, Mount Beauty, and Myrtleford have been extended until 7pm on Friday, 19 December 2025.
- Swimming pools in Mount Beauty and Myrtleford are open from 3.30pm to 6.30pm from Monday through to Friday, and 1pm to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.
- Splash parks in Bright and Myrtleford are available during daylight hours throughout the week.
- Visitor Information Centres are open from 9am to 5pm in Bright, 9.30pm to 4pm in Mount Beauty, and 9am to 3pm in Myrtleford.
Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre is available between 10am and 3pm on weekdays as a cool place to visit, as is Myrtleford RSL. Myrtleford RSL is open between 4pm and 6pm on Thursday, 18 December 2025 and between 11am and 6pm on Friday, 19 December 2025 and Saturday, 20 December 2025.
For more information about Alpine Shire Council facilities, including their locations and opening and closing hours, visit https://www.alpineshire.vic.gov.au/things-do
The website for the Victorian Department of Health has information about what to do before, during, and after a heatwave. For more, visit https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/campaigns/survive-heat