An area larger than Tasmania is under a total fire ban in southern Queensland today, raising fears of a dangerous bushfire season ahead.

Above-average temperatures, strong winds, and parched land are worrying firefighters in the state. 

It comes as meteorologists warn an unusual burst of heat high over Antarctica has the potential to disrupt weather patterns across Australia for months.

• Guest: Greg Mullins, founder of Emergency Leaders for Climate Action and former Commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW
• Producer: Anne Barker