Australia

Forecasters have cancelled a severe weather warning for flooding despite heavy rainfalls across much of NSW, Australia.

While official figures are yet to be updated for the past 24 hours, initial reports indicate that some areas may have already received up to 200mm of rain in the past 24 to 36 hours.

November was a scorcher in many southern and eastern areas of Australia but the temperatures haven't been quite so intense of late. It could be that things are about to change once more...

The 40s have almost become commonplace over parts of Australia recently and today it looks like Sydneys turn.41 degrees is the expected high with sunny and very hot northerlies anticipated for the big city.

Smoke and haze is also in the forecast and the fire danger is again extreme which is keeping local authorities on high alert.

We might be feeling the chill across this side of the Tasman but it's a different story across the ditch...

Spring across the southeast of Australia has become a furnace, breaking records with heatwaves scorching Melbourne and Adelaide and turning vast tracts of bush and farmland into tinder.

It's been a very wet weekend in inland areas of New South Wales, Australia but it appears the worst is over.

Flooding has eased with most isolated communities now having access restored.

A coolish Guy Fawkes is likely in southern and eastern parts of Australia with occasional showery periods likely. To the north and west, hot conditions are set to prevail.

Brisbane-Chance of thunder 27

Sydney- A few showers 20

Canberra- Some rain 18

Melbourne- Some showers 20

Hobart- Mostly fine 17

We might be feeling the cold on this side of the Tasman but parts of Australia are feeling the heat with Adelaide climbing  into the low 30s today.

Most Australian centres are in the 20s and a few rogue showers are possible up the New South Wales and Queensland coasts.

Top temperatures in Oz

Temperatures are expected to soar in Australia's largest city with the thermometer expected to nudge 30 degrees.

The hot weather is also expected to be felt in parts of Queensland and the ACT with the mercury creeping up to the 30 degree mark as well.

Main centre highs

Sydney 30

Brisbane 29

Many Kiwis head across the Tasman sea each year to sample the 'lucky country'. Some are in search of a better lifestyle, whether it be work, family, warmer weather or a combination of all 3!

The diagram illustrates the different types of climate in the so-called ' lucky country '.

Satellite photos indicate an area of dust particles swept up in the storm measures up to 200km wide, a Bureau of Meteorology spokesman said.

Authorities have issued health warnings for residents.

Residents of the New South Wales south-western slopes and south-west Sydney have been warned to stay inside as much as possible.