Moree will be heating up over the next few days as it enters its longest period of 40 degree days since 2009.
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Temperatures have been climbing since the start of this week however tomorrow (Wednesday, January 11) is expected to reach a top of 41, while temperatures will peak on Thursday at a sweltering 43 degrees.
A maximum of 42 is expected for Friday, while Saturday will be hotter again with 43 forecast.
A Bureau of Meterology spokesperson said we can expect some relief on Sunday and Monday, as temperatures drop to 35 degrees.
“A change is coming through on Saturday which will bring some relief, however we are expecting temperatures to start increasing again next week,” the spokesperson said.
The last time Moree experienced four consecutive days of 40 degree temperatures was back in November 2009 when a total of seven days over 40 was recorded by the Bureau of Meteorology.
The last January that we saw four days of 40 degree temperatures was in 2003.
This could also be the longest ever period of temperatures recorded above 35 degrees.
Since December 27, Moree has had 14 days in a row that have been 35 degrees or higher and based on the current forecast, this looks set to continue for at least another week.
The last 16-day hot spell was back in 2003, while the summer of 1981-82 recorded the highest number of hot days with a total of 17 days over 35 degrees.
This current heatwave looks set to beat that record.
Summer of 2016-17 is already shaping up to be hotter than last year’s.
The average maximum temperature in December 2016 was 35.9 degrees - two degrees warmer than the previous year.
And with the first 10 days of January 2017 recording more than 35 degrees, this month looks set to beat the 32.9 degree average for January 2016.
Moree residents are reminded of the potential health risks associated with the predicted hot weather.
NSW Health’s director of environmental health, Dr Ben Scalley, said with high temperatures forecast it was important that people take precautions to prevent heat-related illness.
“Heat-related illness is very serious and ranges from mild conditions to very serious medical emergencies,” Dr Scalley said.
“While heat-related illness can affect anyone, certain groups of people are particularly vulnerable.
“These include older people, infants and children, people with a chronic medical condition and those who live alone.
“During hot weather, it’s important to stay in regular contact with elderly neighbours, friends and relatives and to look out for other vulnerable members of their community.
“Heat puts a lot of strain on the body and can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It can also make underlying health conditions worse.
“Being prepared and taking simple precautions reduces the risk of heat-related illness.”
Dr Scalley said the following simple precautions will help minimise the risk of heat-related illness.
- Drink plenty of water, and remember to carry some with you when out and about.
- Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks.
- Plan your day around the heat, particularly in the middle of the day, and minimise physical activity.
- Keep the sun out by shading windows with curtains, blinds or closing shutters.
- Keep windows closed during the day until it cools down and in early morning.
- If you don’t have an air-conditioner, try to spend time in an air-conditioned place like a shopping centre, library or cinema.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton.
- When outdoors, stay protected from the sun by wearing a hat and sunscreen.
“Signs of heat-related illness may include nausea, vomiting, faintness and dizziness, loss of appetite, weakness, headaches, loss of sweating and reduced urine output,” Dr Scalley said.
“People showing severe signs of heat-related illness should seek urgent medical attention through their GP or the emergency department at their nearest hospital.
“And it is absolutely essential children and pets are not left in cars. They will become distressed and seriously ill in a matter of minutes.”
More information about heat-health can be found on the NSW Health website ‘Beat the Heat’: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat