News

Beat the heat this week

By Pip Turton

Jan 6, 2026

Shepparton is bracing for a scorching week, with temperatures expected to soar into the mid-40s. Photo by Megan Fisher

Shepparton is heading into one of its hottest weeks of the summer, with temperatures forecast to climb into the mid-40s and remain high for several days.

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As the heat builds, locals are being urged to slow down, plan ahead and take advantage of air-conditioned spaces around the city to stay safe and cool.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe heatwave warnings for much of Victoria, with conditions expected to peak on Wednesday and Thursday.

In Shepparton, overnight temperatures are also set to remain warm, making it harder for the body to recover from daytime heat.

Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and, in severe cases, heat stroke.

Even short breaks in a cooler environment can significantly reduce the strain on the body.

Cool spaces open in Greater Shepparton

For those needing relief from the heat, a number of public spaces across Shepparton and surrounding towns offer air-conditioned environments where people can cool down during the hottest parts of the day.

Public libraries

Mooroopna Library
Shepparton Library
Tatura Library

Community centres

Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre
Murchison and District Neighbourhood House
North Shepparton Neighbourhood Community and Learning Centre
South Shepparton Community House
Tatura Community House

Shopping Centres

Shepparton Marketplace
Riverside Plaza

Spending even a few hours in one of these locations can help lower body temperature and reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

Pools

Operating hours for Aquamoves and outdoor pools remain unchanged for now, although hours may be extended if the heat continues.

Any changes will be shared through the Aquamoves Facebook page.

Train travel timetable

Those travelling by train should be aware that hot weather will affect some V/Line services. Partial extreme heat timetables will operate on the Shepparton and Seymour lines on Tuesday, with a full extreme heat timetable running across most of the V/Line network on Wednesday.

Passengers are advised to check timetables before travelling and allow extra time.

For more on the timetables, visit transport.vic.gov.au

Don’t let heat stroke strike

Ambulance Victoria is reminding the community that heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Symptoms may include confusion, seizures, collapsing, loss of consciousness, or heavy sweating — or no sweating at all.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should call 000 immediately.

While older people, young children and those with existing medical conditions are most at risk, heat-related illness can affect anyone, including healthy adults.

To stay safe during extreme heat:

Drink water regularly throughout the day
Use air-conditioning and fans where possible
Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day
Wear a hat and sunscreen when outside
Supervise children around water
Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a short time

For non-urgent medical advice, residents can contact Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24, use the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, or speak with a local GP or pharmacist.