High chance of El Niño in Australia, worsening heat, bushfires and drought

'This is not good news,' Bureau of Meteorology says, warning drought conditions could get worse

Heatwaves and bushfires are predicted in southern Australia thanks to a 70% chance of El Nino weather conditions, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned. Although cyclones may ease up in the north by the end of the year, the outlook for drought-hit areas is not good, according to the bureau.

"Between the [above average] temperature and the lack of rainfall, this is not good news," climatologist Robyn Duell said. "This outlook on the back of such little rainfall and dry conditions makes it such a worry for people."