Mass areas of the outback in Western Australia are set to face extreme heat in the coming week as predictions are indicating temperatures of 50 degrees Celsius for some of the inland towns because of the hot air mass moving over the region.
The Bureau of Meteorology is tipping maximum temperatures well above average in the Pilbara, Kimberley and inland Gascoyne regions due to the slow moving trough system and the influence of northerly winds in drawing hot air from the interior.
The hot weather is forecast to extend over several days rather than just an afternoon.
“In the interior of the WA region it’s not unusual to see upper 40s temperatures during the summer months however, the extent and duration of this pattern make this particular occasion stand out,” explained meteorologists.
In addition to the high temperatures during the day the overnight low temperatures are also predicted to remain high.
Regional areas and aboriginal communities are forecast to be some of the most at risk.
Some areas have diesel power and water supply systems that may be stressed during heatwaves.
Local councils have issued advisories to check on other people and avoid travel during peak heat times.
The heat has raised concerns for travelers and freight carriers crossing long distances between service centers.
Main Roads WA has warned road users to carefully plan travel, carry additional water and check vehicles as hot weather increases the potential for tires to burst and roadways to degrade.
According to health authorities, the longer one is subjected to the effects of high temperatures, the greater the possible risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke particularly among the elderly, young children and those with existing conditions.
Symptoms include dizziness, vomiting and confusion which can progress rapidly when the affected are unable to cool off their bodies.
Hospitals in the northern part of the country are gearing up for possible heat related admissions.
A heat surge across a warming climate shaped summer.
Scientists have warned time and again that extreme heat events which hit inland Australia among other areas hardest are getting more frequent and intense.
WA has already recorded several unusually hot spells this season adding to growing concerns over long term resilience in remote areas..
While forecasts indicate southern parts of WA might experience a cooler change later in the week inland areas are likely to stay hot for longer.
However, meteorologists warn that precise peak temperatures hinge on cloud cover and wind patterns despite these conditions remaining favourable for extreme heat.
According to the authorities people right across the affected regions are being called upon to remain informed through official warnings to adapt work and travel plans if possible and to take the heat seriously.
