ACT weather: Canberra could have hottest December week in 13 years

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to reach tops of 31, followed by an upward trend to 35 degrees on Saturday.

If the average maximum temperature for this week hits 34 degrees, it will be Canberra's hottest December week since 2002. The last time a week in December averaged a maximum temperature of 32-33 degrees was in 2013.

The warm spell comes after a weekend of slightly chilly mornings and milder days, with overnight temperatures having hovered around eight degrees below average for this time of year.

"There is a chance of Canberra having its hottest week in two summers," Weatherzone meteorologist Brett Dutschke said.

"The last time we would have had a similarly hot week would have been January this year, but this will likely be hotter, and most likely the hottest week since February 2014."

Despite the hot days, the average minimum temperature for the week is forecast at a comfortable 12 degrees, although blankets may be kicked off beds next weekend as the nights warm up.

There is a chance of some showers breaking up the sunshine on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and breezes should remain gentle throughout the week.

"Given that we wouldn't have experienced this heat in at least last summer and probably the summer before, it means that some people might find it difficult to cope with, particularly the elderly and babies," Mr Dutschke said.

"So it's important for people to try to avoid doing strenuous exercise outside and drink plenty of water, stay in shade if they have to go outside, and it's definitely not a time to be leaving pets or children in cars."

The early rise in temperatures is part of the El Nino pattern that will likely keep making Canberra sizzle this summer, elevating the risk of bushfire.During El Nino events, high-pressure systems tend to sit over the country, making it harder for clouds to develop and bring rain.Mr Dutschke said Canberra could expect many similar weeks over the coming months.

Royal Lifesaving ACT executive director Cherry O'Connor had some advice for those planning to cool off in Canberra's inland waterways on weekends.

"The four key standout messages are to never swim alone, avoid alcohol when participating in aquatic activities, familiarise yourselves with aquatic activities and to learn CPR," she said.Royal Lifesaving reports 13 people have drowned in inland waterways in the ACT since July 2002.

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