TRC urges residents to take precautions during extreme heat

Toowoomba Regional Council is advising residents to take sensible precautions to guard against the worst effects of the extreme heat that is forecast across the Region and much of Queensland in the coming days.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald said the Bureau of Meteorology had forecast extremely high temperatures for most of Queensland, which would persist until the weekend at the earliest. He said residents attending the Region’s civic Australia Day functions this Sunday should take heed of the weather forecasts.

He said the Bureau’s forecast indicated the Toowoomba Region would be affected by severe heatwave conditions, which would see both minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in the next three days far higher than the average seasonal temperatures for January.

(The Bureau of Meteorology lists Toowoomba’s mean January maximum temperature as 27.6 degrees Celsius with a mean January minimum temperature of 16.7 degrees Celsius. Temperatures for centres like Oakey, Cecil Plains, Pittsworth, Millmerran and Clifton and surrounding areas are predicted to reach the high 30-degree range in the coming days, along with an extreme UV index figure.)

“Extreme heat can be particularly dangerous, and residents should take measures to avoid working outdoors, especially in the middle of the day,” Mayor McDonald said.

“Even indoor workers and residents who do not have access to air conditioning need to take preventative measures where possible. Apart from keeping curtains and blinds drawn and using fans, residents without air conditioning could consider visiting public facilities such as libraries, swimming pools or shopping centres in the hottest part of the day to avoid otherwise stifling conditions.

“Young children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with pe-existing medical conditions are most at risk, but heat stress can affect anyone.

“Residents should drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and caffeine), stay out of direct sunlight and check on neighbours in the coming week.

“Anyone experiencing heat-related symptoms (dizziness, headaches, nausea, rapid pulse and confusion, even a loss of consciousness) should seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency call 000.”

For advice about coping in extreme heat and related health advice, please see the Queensland Health website.

Mayor McDonald said residents attending events, particularly Council’s civic Australia Day functions on January 26 should ensure they have a hat, apply sunscreen and stay in shaded areas as much as possible. Staying hydrated with water is essential across periods of prolonged heat.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting the chance of a southerly change later in the week which is likely to offer some respite from the extreme heat. Residents are encouraged to check daily forecasts to take the most appropriate precautions.

For the latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology, visit http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings/

For Toowoomba Region emergency news and updates, please visit http://disaster.tr.qld.gov.au/