Intense heat was experienced throughout the State during the week end, and the shortage of water in many country districts increased the general discomfort. Temporary relief was given by isolated thunder storms in some country districts, and in the southern portion of the State a cool change yesterday gave welcome respite. In the metropolitan area Saturday’s high temperatures were followed by a maximum of 109.6 degrees before the arrival of the change. Many country towns reported record readings of 112 degrees and over, and at Sea Lake the thermometer reached 116 degrees...

Melbourne yesterday sweltered in the hottest day for 33 years. The maximum temperature recorded at the Weather Bureau was 109.6 degrees at 12.20 pm.

[A, 9/1/39]