Hot nights above 34°C raise serious overnight health risks

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Australia’s heatwave isn’t just a daytime problem. Hot nights are also creating serious health risks.

While daytime temperatures have pushed close to 50°C in parts of Victoria, NSW, South Australia, the ACT and Queensland, overnight conditions have stayed above 34°C in some areas. Marree in northern SA recorded two nights in a row at that level after daytime highs above 48°C. In Adelaide, it was still 36°C at midnight earlier this week — far above the city’s usual January daytime average.

A heatwave is officially declared when both day and night temperatures stay unusually high for several days. When nights don’t cool down, the body doesn’t get the chance to recover from the heat.

Health authorities warn this increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially during power outages. Drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Cut back on caffeine. Use air conditioning if you have it, or spend time in air-conditioned public places during the day.

Watch for warning signs such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps and heavy sweating. Confusion or slurred speech can signal heatstroke — this is an emergency.

Some relief is expected. Cooler nights are forecast for Adelaide and Melbourne by late Saturday or Sunday, with Sydney and Canberra likely to see improvement by Monday.

Source :9 News

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