A plea to “stay hydrated” has been issued by the Queensland Ambulance Service as temperatures in Redcliffe reached the highest minimum at 25.8 degrees at night whilst the rest of Brisbane was at 24.9 degrees.
Residents could expect the temperature to hit 34 degrees from Saturday to Sunday, the 4th and 5th of February 2023, as the winds coming down from the north are running over the warm waters of the Coral Sea. The Bureau of Meteorology said that the combination of warm temperatures and moisture could bring discomfort to coastal residents and could be fatal for some people who are at risk of heat stress.
Thus, Queensland Ambulance Service Clinical Director Tony Hucker reminded the public to have cold water accessible at all times and sip this regularly to avert the risk of heat-related health issues. He discouraged drinking cold beer as cold water is best for dealing with the unusual temperature.
Mr Hucker also advised avoiding mid-afternoon runs or slowing down at work if people are going to be on the field when it’s hot outside because even those with fit bodies may be at risk. If going outside is unavoidable, the experts suggested wearing loose-fit clothes and sunnies, slapping on a hat, putting on sunscreen, and then seeking shade or cooler spaces as often as possible.
Residents are also urged to check on their friends, family members and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the hot temperature. Even pets are at risk if they are outside even for just a short period.
Tracy Maltby of the Redcliffe Community Noticeboard asked pet owners not to walk their dogs this weekend anymore.
“You have shoes on so have no idea of how hot the ground is. We are already at level 4/5 at 6.30am,” she wrote.
The signs of heat stress or heat stroke may include sweating, dry and hot skin, weakness and confusion. Mr Hucker warned that the signs can be subtle as someone in distress may not even sweat.