Heatwave warning issued across Australia: when to worry
How can you look after yourself during the expected heatwaves across Australia?
![<p>Staying inside in air-conditioned areas is a good way to stay safe in heatwaves as an older Australian. [Source: iStock]</p>](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/wp/manwarm0402.jpg?fm=pjpg&format=auto&w=550&q=65)
Staying inside in air-conditioned areas is a good way to stay safe in heatwaves as an older Australian. [Source: iStock]
Key points:
- A heatwave warning has been issued for many parts of Australia, including New South Wales, Western Australia and South Australia
- Older Australians are more likely to need hospitalisation due to heat-related concerns compared to other age groups in hot weather
- If you are seriously injured or need immediate help, contact Triple Zero for an ambulance but if it’s not an emergency, visit your local doctor to get the help you need
A heatwave warning has been issued across multiple Australian States and Territories, with older Australians being instructed to stay safe in the hot weather.
People in southern New South Wales, Western Australia, Far Northwest South Australia and Northeastern Victoria are expected to experience low to severe-intensity heatwave conditions over the next three days, starting February 4, 2025.
More older people aged 65 years and over were hospitalised due to heat-related injuries in the summer of 2023 – 2024 compared to all other age groups.
Signs of heatstroke may appear similar to heat exhaustion or age-related cognitive decline, such as:
- confusion or agitation;
- loss of consciousness; and
- muscle twitching or seizures.
However, heat-related illnesses may be identified through symptoms such as:
- heavy sweating;
- pale skin;
- muscle cramps;
- weakness;
- dizziness, headache;
- nausea, vomiting;
- fainting;
- a rapid pulse; and
- dark or strong-smelling urine.
More Australians die in severe and extreme heatwaves than in any other natural hazard according to the Australian Climate Service.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology predicts the upcoming heatwave to affect a large part of the Australian Capital Territory, western parts of the Northern Territory, as well as Central Northern and Eastern Victoria.
NSW Ambulance Acting Chief Superintendent Anna Hunter commented on the impact of heatwaves and how to keep yourself cool, in an interview with the ABC.
“We have seen some heat illness cause an increase in demand on all health services and Triple Zero calls,” she said.
“It’s really important to limit the physical activity [sic], like housework or exercise and opt for those times of the day that the temperatures are lower, but — preferably — try and stay out of the heat altogether.”
However, if you don’t have access to an air conditioner or your house doesn’t stay cool, finding other options to keep yourself out of the heat is essential as an older Australian.
Local libraries have air conditioning and plenty of books to keep you occupied. Indoor shopping centres and movie theatres are also other good options. Read more about staying safe during long heatwaves in the Aged Care Guide.
In one study, more than half of older people only used their air conditioner when they felt hot. However, the symptoms of heatstroke can occur quickly and negatively impact an older person’s health, highlighting the importance of finding affordable ways to stay cool.
To reduce the cost of running your air conditioner and save energy, ensure well-fitted curtains cover your windows during the hottest part of the day and consider using a draught stopper to minimise the amount of cool air escaping from the room you’re cooling.
Additionally, fans can be an economical way to cool an area, but they may only lower the room temperature by a couple of degrees.
If you are seriously injured or need immediate help, contact Triple Zero for an ambulance. If it’s not an emergency, visit your local doctor to get the help you need.
State-based services also check up on older people on behalf of family and friends. For instance, South Australia has the Red Cross Telecross Redi Service, which helps people cope during extreme weather events. Register your interest by calling the service on 1800 188 071 or visiting the website.
However, if you’re worried about an older person, such as a neighbour or family member, knowing when to check in with them during a heatwave is important.
The Heatwave Check-In Program is available online and offers a wide range of information that can help people learn about the health hazards associated with high temperatures.
In Australia, the summer months — December, January and February — can reach extreme temperatures of upwards of 40 degrees Celsius.
In 2024, the mean maximum temperature across all Australian States and Territories was 1.48 degrees Celsius above average, making it Australia’s second warmest year since 1910 when national climate records began.
To stay up to date with weather warnings in your local area, visit the Australian Bureau of Meteorology for more information.
How do you like to stay cool in heatwaves as an older Australian?
Let the team at Talking Aged Care know on social media.
For more information and news in the aged care industry, subscribe to our free newsletter.
Relevant content:
New super standards could save you hundreds of dollars a year
Brother Thomas Oliver Pickett wins 2025 Senior Australian of the Year
Urgent warning: Senior Cards scam targeting older Australians