The heatwave is returning with a vengeance and records are set to be smashed all over the state this weekend, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
But as the heat rises, people could also be at the mercy of the mercury, with Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) warning that people across the state could be left without power.
The energy operator reports, there could be a shortfall tomorrow afternoon, because high power demands could exceed the amount of power currently being produced.
The AMEO has issued an urgent request for more power to be generated, but if their request isn’t met, there could be rolling blackouts across the state mid-afternoon, between 3pm and 5pm.
If the blackouts occur, they will coincide with temperatures in the mid 40 degree range and people will be unable to cool off with with the help of fans and air-conditioners.
For those living in rural areas, the news is even more dire.
The Rural Fire Service (RFS) have imposed a total fire ban in the Southern Riverina, Southern Slopes and Southern Ranges tomorrow, due to the hazardous fire conditions.
If a blackout does occur, some areas will have their ability to protect their properties from fires, severely diminished.
Places like Wagga, Broken Hill, Walgett, Dubbo and Mildura will be sweating through temperatures over 40 degrees on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The heatwave will continue through the weekend, with a cool change on Monday dropping the mercury at least 10 degrees across the state.
