It’s going to be an absolute bloody scorcher today, folks. Sydney is expected to hit temps of the mid-to-high thirties, and with temps spiking to the low forties across the state.
We might be in the middle of a heat wave, but this is the first real, kick-you-in-the-dick-and-burn-your-eyeballs belter of a day.
As such, NSW Health has issued a health alert to keep Aussies cool and hydrated, which mostly consists of advice like “drink fluids” and “don’t stand in direct view of the giant ball of flame.” All wise words, my friends.
“People can be unprepared for the first heat spike of summer, so we are reminding them to take safety measures against the effects of overheating and sun exposure,” said Ben Scalley, Director of Environmental Health.
“It’s important people keep up their water intake, stay cool and avoid strenuous physical activity in the heat of the day,” he said.
“Heat places a lot of strain on the body and can interfere with blood circulation and cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
According to a study published by NSW Health earlier this year, extreme heatwaves lead to a more than 10 percent increase deaths.
Signs of heat-related illness include nausea, vomiting, faintness and dizziness, loss of appetite, weakness, headaches, loss of sweating and reduced urine output, and anyone experiencing severe signs short seek medical attention ASAP.
Aside from the obvious ways to keep cool (i.e. become besties with anyone with air con, and/or spend all day inside a cinema watching The Last Jedi on repeat), NSW Health advises you to drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and hot or sugary drinks, minimise physical activity, wear loose-fitting clothing, wear sunscreen and a hat and keep windows closed and shades drawn.
It also advises you to check on your elderly relatives and neighbours, as they’re particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
“During hot weather, it’s important to stay in regular contact with elderly neighbours, friends and relatives and to look out for other vulnerable members of their community,” said Scalley.
But for reals: try not to melt today, there’s a good lad.
