Australia Swelters in Record Heat Wave as Temperatures Approach 50°C

Parts of Australia experienced record-breaking temperatures, nearing 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), during a prolonged heat wave on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The rural towns of Hopetoun and Walpeup in Victoria state provisionally recorded highs of 48.9 C (120 F), according to the Associated Press. If confirmed, these temperatures would surpass records set in 2009, the year of the devastating Black Saturday bushfires that resulted in 173 fatalities.

While no casualties were reported on Tuesday, Victoria authorities urged caution. The heat wave comes as the country grapples with broader economic and political issues.

In other news, a new book, "The Windsor Legacy," details a heated argument between Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1954 during a royal tour in Australia. According to Fox News, the book describes "temper tantrums, sharp exchanges, and the occasional explosive fight" behind palace doors.

Meanwhile, President Trump is scheduled to visit Iowa on Tuesday to promote his economic policies, despite the economic struggles faced by many residents. The New York Times reports that Iowa's economy, heavily reliant on farming, has been negatively impacted by Trump's trade policies, particularly tariffs. These tariffs have increased the cost of machinery and materials for farmers, with the price of metal bins and tractors soaring. China's retaliatory halt of American farm product purchases has also cut off Iowa soybean exporters from their largest buyer.

Globally, record or near-record debt in wealthy nations such as the United States, Britain, France, Italy, and Japan threatens global growth, according to The New York Times. This debt can hamstring growth and sow financial instability, forcing countries to allocate funds to interest payments that could otherwise be used for healthcare, infrastructure, or education.

Adding to international tensions, Canada's defense spending has come under scrutiny. Fox News reports that Canada, with a GDP of 2.4 trillion, does not spend 2% of its GDP on defense, a minimum standard for NATO alliance members. Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to reach this target by 2030.