UPDATE: RFS issue warning
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The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to get ready now for another period of high temperatures and increased fire danger, with temperatures across the state set to soar above 40 degrees later this week.
The Bureau of Meteorology advises much of New South Wales - including the Central Ranges, which incorporates the Mid-Western Region – will experience an extended period of hot and dry weather from this Thursday onwards.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said some areas are likely to experience Severe fire danger on Friday, with hot and dry conditions to persist across the weekend.
“Temperatures will reach the mid-40s in a number of areas and the Bureau of Meteorology forecast indicates there is little relief in sight, with little to no rain forecast during the coming hot spell,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“The forecast heatwave will elevate the risk of fire and Total Fire Bans are likely to be declared for some areas, so I urge landholders, homeowners, businesses and holidaymakers to consider how they will be impacted and begin making their preparations today.”
The NSW RFS recommends people living in bush fire prone areas to get ready now:
- Make or review your bush fire survival plan - decide now what you will do if a fire starts near you
- Check the fire danger for your area - look out for the roadside signs and know the fire danger rating
- Stay up to date on fires in your area - check the NSW RFS website or the Fires Near Me app for fires in your area.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said while NSW RFS, Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry Corporation of NSW firefighters are ready to respond, the community needs to play its part to help prevent and minimise the impact of bush and grass fires.
“Preparation is the key and we need families and households to make and discuss their bush fire survival plan so everyone knows what they need to do in the event that a fire threatens,” he said.
Anyone who sees an unattended fire should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Visit www.myfireplan.com.au for simple tips on getting ready for this bush fire season.
Earlier:
The temperature has begun its climb towards another hot weekend bringing the southeast of the country back to a warm January.
The climb begun mid-week – just days after temperatures dropped off momentarily – with Mudgee predicted to hit 39°C on Friday through to Sunday before 41 on Monday and 40 the next day.
Gulgong is also tipped to be 39°C from Friday to Sunday, and only slightly milder on Monday at 40.
With the cooler Nullo Mountain weather station in the Rylstone/Kandos area forecasts; Friday 32°C, Saturday 31, Sunday 32; and peaking on Monday at 34.
This coming just days after temperatures dropped off momentarily.
A cold airmass from the Southern Ocean settled over southeastern Australia, leading to a current period of cooler than average temperatures.
This weekend is forecast to be more like that of the 6th through to Monday the 8th, which saw the hottest day of the month so far on Sunday the 7th (Mudgee 40.5°C, Gulgong 40.7, Rylstone/Kandos 34.5).
Cont below
Flying Doctor warns of heat stress risk
The Royal Flying Doctor Service warned about the effects of heat stress, referencing England cricket captain Joe Root’s struggle during the Ashes.
“Records going back 150 years show that heat stress accounts for the deaths of more Australians than floods, cyclones, bushfires and storms combined,” RFDS SE senior flight nurse, Karen Barlow, said.
“If it can affect international cricketers with all their expert heath and medical support then we’re all vulnerable.”
Heat stress occurs once heat gain outstrips the body’s ability to cool down adequately. Early signs include muscle cramps in limbs or stomach, dark coloured or reduced urine flow, vomiting, headaches, dizziness and fainting. It is caused by a combination of:
- Physical activity – exercise or work.
- Environmental conditions such as high ambient temperature, humidity, air movement and radiant heat sources.
- Wearing heavy or short clothing that does not cover the skin and prevents the body’s natural cooling system from functioning properly. Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long trousers are recommended.
- An inability of the body’s natural cooling system to function properly.
Rapid heart rate, difficulty in breathing, dizziness and impaired mental function are common signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Immediate medical treatment is required.
The immediate reduction of core body temperature is vital because survival and avoiding internal organ damage is determined by the length of time the victim has been experiencing extreme heat stress.
This can be done by:
- Getting the person to a cool area and laying them down.
- Removing their outer clothing to release body heat.
- Applying cool water or ice or to the skin and main arteries under the arms, on the neck and groin. However, be careful not to cool them down too quickly as that can also have an adverse effect.
- Getting them to drink water if they are fully conscious.