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Residents across large parts of New South Wales, including Hawkesbury are being urged to take precautions as a Severe Heatwave Warning remains in place.
The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology has warned that dangerously high temperatures will persist, with conditions posing serious health and safety risks, particularly for vulnerable members of the community.
According to the Bureau, temperatures are not expected to ease until after 10pm tonight, with overnight relief limited. The mercury is forecast to drop to a low of just 18 degrees around 5am on Friday, before climbing rapidly again, reaching a predicted high of 38 degrees later in the day. Overnight temperatures are also expected to remain unusually warm, with a minimum of around 24 degrees.
Heatwave warnings are issued when extremely high temperatures are forecast for at least two consecutive days. These warnings are based on the heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity, and highlights the increased risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Authorities are encouraging residents to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration. People are also advised to limit outdoor activities, particularly between 10am and 4pm, and to seek out air-conditioned environments where possible, including homes, shopping centres or public libraries.
Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, taking cool showers or baths, and postponing strenuous activities such as exercise or yard work until cooler parts of the day can also help reduce heat stress.
Importantly, community members are urged to check on elderly neighbours, young children, and those who are unwell to ensure they are coping with the heat and staying cool.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring local weather updates and follow advice from emergency services and health authorities as the heatwave continues.
