The intense conditions are expected to peak today at a maximum temperature of about 46°C, after the district has already struggled through several days of above 40°C.
There will not be any reprieve until at least Saturday, with 42°C predicted for tomorrow and 43°C for Friday. Saturday and Sunday are expected to drop to 31°C and 33°C respectively, with Saturday in particular promising stronger winds which could still be dangerous if a fire was to ignite.
Tocumwal Fire and Rescue NSW Captain Ian Desailly said residents and tourists should avoid going outdoors in the heat, and ‘‘under no circumstances should any fires be lit’’.
‘‘There should be no burning whatsoever, as there are no permits granted at this time of the year, particularly during a heatwave like this,’’ Capt Desailly said.
‘‘If a north westerly wind catches hold of a small ember or spark it can cause a bushfire in a matter of minutes.
‘‘You can have a barbecue, but there should be no naked flames and you should carefully check gas bottles and fittings.
‘‘If you’re unsure please call your local Fire and Rescue or Rural Fire Service captain.
‘‘And if you do see any smoke call Triple Zero immediately.’’
Murrumbidgee Local Health District has also issued a warning to the district, to take the risk of heat-related illness seriously.
Director public health Tracey Oakman said while heat-related illness may affect anyone, people older than 75, infants and children, people with a chronic medical condition and people who live alone are more vulnerable than others.
‘‘Every year hot weather and heat waves cause illness, hospitalisations and sometimes even deaths,’’ Mrs Oakman said.
‘‘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.
‘‘However, being prepared and taking some simple precautions can reduce the risk of heat-related illness.’’
These simple precautions will help people minimise their risk of heat-related illness:
●Drink plenty of water, and remember to carry some with you when you’re out and about.
●If you are travelling, make sure you take water to drink in case you break down or are delayed.
●Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks.
●Plan your day around the heat. Stay indoors between 11am and 5pm and minimise physical activity.
●Keep the sun out of your house by shading windows with an awning, shade-cloth or plants. Shutting curtains will also help.
And remember, while rivers look inviting, they are a dangerous place to cool off even if you are a confident swimmer.
16°C