This week, nearly half of the nation is under a heatwave warning, with severe to extreme conditions forecasted for large parts of Western Australia and Queensland. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued alerts that these sweltering conditions are expected to persist until at least Saturday.
In Western Australia, residents are bracing for temperatures that are forecast to be between 6 and 12 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average. Perth, the capital city, is expected to experience highs ranging from 39C to 41C from Tuesday and Friday.
‘There seems to be some moisture getting in from the ocean, particularly for those right on the beach, which can make it feel warmer than it actually is,’ said BoM forecaster Dean Narramore.
The coastal city of Geraldton has already felt the heat’s impact, matching its record for the hottest-ever day at a scorching 49.3C.
Queensland is also feeling the heat, with the worst conditions anticipated towards the end of the workweek where maximum temperatures are predicted to soar 6C to 12C above average.
Meanwhile, Brisbane is likely to hit between 35C to 37C from Wednesday and Friday. The high humidity is expected to make these temperatures feel even worse.
But it is not just the daytime heat that is causing concern. The BoM emphasises the importance of nighttime temperatures in their heatwave warnings, as hot nights can significantly increase health risks and mortality. Warm nights prevent the environment from cooling down, meaning the next day starts even hotter.
Perth is looking at a series of nights above 25C, while Queensland is expected to experience similarly uncomfortable conditions.
Meanwhile, Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, and South Australia are expected to enjoy milder summer weather as they are outside the warning area.
A factor behind this scorching scenario is a slow-moving tropical cyclone named Sean, which is lingering over the coast to Western Australia. The unusual weather patterns are a result of the cyclone’s interaction with a high-pressure system to the south.
This has created a ‘traffic jam’ in the weather pattern, preventing the usual progression of cold fronts that would bring cooler air. Instead, hot, easterly winds from the central desert are being funnelled into the west and south of the country, while Queensland is experiencing a prolonged period of west to north-westerly winds.
Narramore added that the late arrival of the monsoon season, which typically brings cooling rains to Australia’s tropical north, has also contributed to the intensity of the heatwave.
The combination of these factors means that residents in affected areas need to take extra precautions to protect themselves from the heat. With that, here are some tips for staying cool and safe during a heatwave:
1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
2. Avoid strenuous activities and exercise, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
3. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
4. Seek out air-conditioned environments such as shopping centres or public libraries if it is too hot at home.
5. Never leave children, the elderly, or pets in parked cars, where temperatures can rise to dangerous levels quickly.
6. Check on elderly neighbours or relatives to ensure they are coping with the heat.
7. Cool down with cool showers or baths, or by using a cool damp cloth.
While the heatwave may be temporary, its impacts can be lasting if you do not take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Our YourLifeChoices readers, what do you usually do to cool down during a heatwave? Let us know in the comments section.
Also read: Conquer the heat this summer with this ‘genius’ Bunnings hack!
