New South Wales residents and visitors are urged to stay safe as a wave of hot weather moves through the state over the next three days.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting temperatures to hit the mid-40s with minimum temperatures remaining in the mid 20's overnight. Conditions are expected to cool on Sunday with a southerly change and possible showers or storms developing.
This severe to extreme heatwave pattern is expected to peak today and tomorrow (Saturday 1 February 2020) across NSW.
Police and emergency services are urging everyone in NSW to remember the four key messages to keep healthy in the heat:
1. Drink plenty of water (limit hot, sugary, or alcoholic beverages)
2. Keep cool (stay in the air conditioning, if possible)
3. Take care of others (visit or contact those at risk of heat-related illness)
4. Have a plan (know who to contact if you need assistance and seek medical advice if you feel unwell).
While it is advised to avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, large crowds are still expected at NSW beaches, rivers, lakes, and swimming pools.
State Emergency Operation Controller, NSW Police Force Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys, urged those cooling off by the water to be vigilant, and stay safe.
Anyone swimming in unfamiliar waterways is urged to take extra care – every year thousands of people require rescuing from the surf and many needlessly drown," Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.
"Special care should be taken when swimming in rivers and dams where submerged objects may pose unexpected risks.
"I want to send a strong message to parents: if your children are out swimming, whether that is at the beach, a river, a dam or your backyard pool, and regardless of their age – they need to be supervised.
"It is also strongly recommended that beach and marine users head out early, enjoy the cooler part of the day and head home before the strong winds arrive."
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast 20-30 knot sea breezes for the coastal areas later today and tomorrow.
"Boat users in and around our waterways need to take note of these warnings and plan their day," Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.
"Don't get caught off guard. Plan ahead and ensure you are either back on land or safely anchored when the wind storm arrives."
Visit www.bom.gov.au for updated marine weather forecasts and warnings.
The windy conditions on Sunday in regional NSW are also likely to bring dust storms. Winds in excess of 50km per hour are expected to areas around the Snowy Mountains and could pose a hazard to road users.
"I want to warn all motorists to take it easy during those times. If need be, pull off the road whilst the dust storm passes," Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.
"Your visibility may be hampered so it is best to stay safe and make sound decisions regarding your safety and the safety of other road users," Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.
Importantly, motorists are reminded it is never okay to leave children, the elderly, or pets unattended in a car – even with the air conditioning running. Not only is this dangerous, it can be deadly.
Members of the public should also be aware of the increased risk of bushfires on days with high temperature, especially when combined with windy conditions.
The Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging those heading away for the weekend to check fire conditions and have a plan in the event they are threatened by fire. Check the NSW RFS website or the Fires Near Me NSW app and listen to local radio for updates.
A total fire ban is already in place for Monaro Alpine, Southern Ranges and Southern Slopes.
Visit the Rural Fire Service website (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au) for bushfire preparedness advice and current conditions/warnings.
Livestock and pet owners are also being urged to ensure adequate clean water is always available and that shading is provided, where possible. Additionally, no animal should be left in confined, unventilated areas.
The RSPCA has a multitude of advice available online for reducing heat stress for animals: https://www.rspcansw.org.au/what-we-do/care-for-animals/pet-hazards/heat-stress
For more information on staying healthy in the heat, please visit NSW Health's 'Beat the Heat' website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat
Finally, in the event of an emergency, please call 000 (Triple Zero).
