Now, we’re preparing for the main course.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) is forecasting heatwave conditions again this week with hot temperatures affecting much of NSW, including the Upper Hunter.

Muswellbrook will feel the wrath most, with 41 degrees (Tuesday), 44 (Wednesday), 43 (Thursday), 44 (Friday) and 39 (Saturday) before it relents somewhat with 26 on Sunday. 

Neighbouring Scone begins with 40 on Tuesday, followed by 44 (Wednesday), a pair of 43s (Thursday and Friday) and 40 (Saturday).

Sunday offers a bit of relief with 29.

In Singleton, locals can expect 39 (Tuesday), 43 (Wednesday), 42 (Thursday), 44 (Friday) and 38 (Saturday), dropping to 27 on Sunday.

“Widespread low intensity heatwave conditions are predicted across large parts of the country from central Western Australia to southern parts of the Northern Territory, southern Queensland and over NSW, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia,” a BoM spokesperson said.

“Meanwhile, severe heatwave conditions will also extend from the southern interior of Western Australia through most of South Australia to the east coast of NSW, Victoria and northeast Tasmania.

“In other words, there aren’t too many areas, which will escape this heat.

"And, it will continue to build through this week and people are warned they should not expect a reprieve until at least the weekend in many areas.

"So, we’re encouraging everyone to do whatever they can to stay cool.”

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to be prepared for bush fires, too.

“Prepare your home and property, have a conversation with family and organise a bush fire survival plan,” a spokesperson said.

“Also, stay alert and know what it is you and your family will do if a bush fire threatens.”

For more information on the heatwave forecast, go to http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/heatwave/

To prepare for bush fires, visit https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/

40°C Tuesday

44°C Wednesday

43°C Thursday

43°C Friday

40°C Saturday

29°C Sunday

41°C Tuesday

44°C Wednesday

43°C Thursday

44°C Friday

39°C Saturday

26°C Sunday

39°C Tuesday

43°C Wednesday

42°C Thursday

44°C Friday

38°C Saturday

27°C Sunday