The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has issued a heatwave warning for Western Australians from Wednesday, January 22, until Saturday, January 25, 2025.

The heatwave is expected to be ‘Extreme’ for those living in the Goldfields, South Interior, Great Southern, and Central Wheat Belt Districts. Meanwhile, Pilbara, Gascoyne, Eucla, North Interior, Central West, Lower West, South West, South Coastal, and South East Coastal Districts will face a ‘Severe’ heatwave.

Here are some tips to help keep ourselves and our communities safe:

• consider following up with vulnerable patients and ensure they have access to water and air conditioning. This includes people with renal issues or living on home oxygen
• consider and prepare for an increase in people presenting with heat-related illness to the AMS
• consider electricity backup processes in case issues are faced throughout the duration of the heatwave. Prepare backup supplies in case power is affected concurrently by fuelling up diesel generators and vehicles and protecting temperature-sensitive medications and vaccines
• consider the impact on AMS staff travel policies into communities during the heatwave conditions

South and inland, the heatwave is predicted to continue persisting for the remainder of this week, as temperatures range from the mid-thirties to mid-forties. It’s advised to stay cool by keeping indoors and closing windows, blinds, curtains, or awnings early in the day. Use fans or air-conditioners if available, and stay hydrated with plenty of water.

Western districts may find the heat gradually easing over the weekend as milder onshore flow develops.

Click the link below to access AHCWA Heatwave Resources:

Climate Health Brochure: Staying Healthy in Hot Times