This week’s heatwave sweeping across large regions of Australia serves as a crucial reminder to protect against the sun during daylight hours. However, the rising nighttime temperatures also present significant health concerns.

In certain parts of Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and Queensland, temperatures have soared to nearly 50 degrees Celsius. According to Weatherzone, some regions have experienced nighttime temperatures exceeding 34 degrees, even after sunset.

Among these areas is Marree, a small town in northern South Australia, where the mercury did not dip below 34 degrees for two consecutive nights, early on Wednesday and again yesterday.

Such conditions result in starting the day with already high temperatures, potentially leading to prolonged periods of extreme heat during the day.

Extended stretches of intense heat can strain both humans and animals by shortening the time available for recovery.

Keeping cool on a sticky night

NSW Health highlights the danger of very warm nights paired with daytime heatwaves, as they inhibit the body’s ability to recover from heat exposure effectively.

During these periods, especially if power outages occur, it is crucial to take steps to stay cool and hydrated.

It’s important to stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and reduce your intake of caffeinated drinks.

If you have air conditioning, keep it on through the evening. If you don’t have it, spend daytime in a public library or shopping mall to keep your body cooler.

Remember heat stress can occur at night after a warm day. So look out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps and heavy sweating.

More serious is heatstroke, which has symptoms of confusion or slurred speech. This is a serious health problem and you should seek medical help immediately. 

The good news is relief from the sticky nights is expected by late Saturday or Sunday for Adelaide and Melbourne, while residents in Sydney Canberra will have to wait until Monday.

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