A SEVERE to extreme heatwave passing over the Central West will have a significant impact on people's health, weather forecasters say.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The region has already seen temperatures rise into the high 30s this week, but hotter weather is on the way.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has issued severe fire danger warnings for almost all council areas in this region, this includes: Bathurst, Blayney, Cabonne, Cootamundra-Gundgai, Cowra, Hilltops, Lithgow, Mid-Western, Oberon and Orange.
READ MORE: Widespread closure of NSW Forests
While a high fire danger rating is in place for Dubbo, Forbes, Narromine and Parkes.
Residents in bushland areas are advised to leave early with weather conditions expected to deteriorate on Thursday.
Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Diana Eadie said dangerous fire conditions and record-breaking heat are occurring this week.
READ MORE: NSW bushfires: dangerous conditions ahead
"Smoke will become a significant issue for populated areas," she said.
"This will combine with severe to extreme heatwave conditions to have a large impact on people's health."
Predicted maximum temperatures for Thursday:
- Bathurst 38 degrees
- Cowra 42 degrees
- Dubbo 41 degrees
- Forbes 43 degrees
- Lithgow 36 degrees
- Mudgee 38 degrees
- Oberon 35 degrees
- Orange 37 degrees
- Parkes 41 degrees
- Welligton 41 degrees
- Young 41 degrees
The Western NSW Local Health District said people should be cautious during the extreme heatwave conditions that are forecast across the region for the rest of the week.
Heath protection district manager Priscilla Stanley urged people to stay indoors during the heat of the day, minimise physical activity and keep hydrated during the heatwave.
"I'd encourage everyone to take the risk of heat related illness seriously," she said.
\READ ALSO: Watchdog warns of dodgy AusPost texts
"We know that conditions like these can cause severe illness, hospital admission and even deaths.
"Heat puts a lot of strain on the body and can cause dehydration, heat stress and heat stroke. It can also make underlying health conditions worse.
"People over 75, people with chronic medical conditions and people who live alone are particularly vulnerable.
"It's also really important to stay in regular contact with elderly neighbours, friends and relatives because they may be more vulnerable to the heat."
Signs of heat-related illness
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Irritability
- Thirst
- Fainting
- Muscle pains or cramps
- Headache
- Changes in skin colour
- Rapid pulse
- Shallow breathing
- Vomiting
- Confusion
Reduce your risk of heat-related illness
- Avoid the heat of the day by staying indoors.
- If you don't have air conditioning, using a fan
- Keep curtains shut can help to keep you cool.
- Minimise physical activity
- Drink plenty of water.
People showing severe signs of heat-related illness should seek urgent medical attention, in an emergency situation call triple-0.
More information can be found at NSW Health.
Love local news?
Why not subscribe, the first 30 days of full website access is free.
What do you think?
Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
