- Queenslanders are being urged to protect themselves and their loved ones from heat-related illness as heatwave grips most of Queensland
- Heat-related illnesses can affect everyone, with the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women, young children and people with pre-existing medical conditions particularly at risk
- Keep cool by drinking plenty of water, staying out of the heat of the day, seek air-conditioned places and applying cool towels
As Queenslanders embrace the holiday season, they are being urged to take extra care to protect themselves from heat-related illness as the state swelters through heatwave conditions.
Heatwave conditions are building across most of the state. North-western Queensland is experiencing severe to extreme heatwave conditions, while broad parts of western, northern and central Queensland are also experiencing severe heatwave conditions.
Maximum temperatures west of Longreach are expected to reach the low-to-mid 40s today and over the next few days.
Severe heatwave conditions are also being experienced today, and can be expected tomorrow, for most of Brisbane, Ipswich and Sunshine Coast.
Heatwaves are a very serious health hazard and care should be taken to stay safe, know the signs of heat-related illness, and what to do if they or a loved one becomes unwell.
Signs of heat stress include rising body temperature, dry mouth and eyes, headache, shortness of breath or vomiting.
Heat stroke, which is a more dangerous condition, can be identified through symptoms including heat rash, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and seizures.
