That heatwave gripping Ipswich and the south-east is expected to intensify today before a cool change sweeps though ahead of the Australia Day long weekend.
The mercury is expected to get up to around 37 degrees in Ipswich, Gatton, Boonah and Esk today.
It follows a three day stretch of hot and humid conditions this week.
Bureau of Meteorology Senior Forecaster Miriam Bradbury said that residents can thank Tropical Cyclone Sean for the temperatures.
“The heat has been stagnating over Western and Central parts of Australia for days already.
“This has been enhanced by Tropical Cyclone Sean, now moving away from the Western Australia coastline.
“This heat has gradually been directed eastwards across the country and is now descending on Queensland, “she said.
“However, we are likely to see a south-easterly change moving across the south-east region today, which will bring some limited relief from the heat but it is expected to return by the end of the weekend,” she said.
There’s also the forecast of showers and severe thunderstorms for the south-east today.
Meanwhile, Locals are being warned to take the Summer heat seriously – as the stifling hot conditions continue in Ipswich and the southeast.
Queensland Ambulance Officer in Charge Doug Buchanan said it’s important to not take anything for granted.
“While we’re acquainted with warm weather here in Queensland, we just don’t want to overlook these hazards with the high daytime temperatures.
“We really urge people to protect themselves and those around them by keeping cool, drinking plenty of water, staying out of the heat especially during the peak period of the day, trying to seek air-conditioning as they can and checking on loved ones around them – particularly the elderly and vulnerable,” he said.
Signs and symptoms of heatstroke include dry mouth and eyes, headache, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
For more details on heat related illnesses click the following link https://www.qld.gov.au/health/staying-healthy/environmental/heatsafe/heat-related-illness
