Sam Cronin’s phone is ringing every 10 minutes at the moment.
As large swathes of Australia’s north sweat through severe heatwave conditions that are expected to peak this weekend, the Longreach refrigeration and air conditioning business owner says work is booming.
Mr Cronin said it was hard to complain when business was so good.
“We can’t complain about the work, but we still complain about the heat,” he said.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) says daytime maximum temperatures and overnight minimums are 3-8 degrees Celsius above average for this time of year.The BOM has issued a severe heatwave warning from Friday through to Monday covering northern Queensland from the Peninsula and Gulf Country to the Tablelands, the Herbert and Lower Burdekin, Whitsundays, Capricornia and down to the Wide bay and burnett.
It warned of temperatures in the high 30s to mid-40s and overnight minimums in the low to high 20s.
The heatwave warning also covered the northern and western parts of the Northern Territory.According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s National Mortality Database, there were 21 deaths nationwide in 2022-23 from what has been classified as “exposure to excessive natural heat”.
In 2018-19, the number of deaths was 40 and in 2013-14, there were 94 deaths.
the institute also publishes data on the number of hospitalisations from “exposure to excessive natural heat”.
In the 2023-24 year, there were 544 hospitalisations. This was up from 354 in the previous year.
Installing air conditioners is a booming business in Longreach. (ABC Western Qld: Hannah Walsh)
Queenslanders Brace for Continued Heatwave as Temperatures Soar
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Queensland is experiencing a severe heatwave,with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in many areas. The extreme heat poses significant health risks,especially for vulnerable populations,and is impacting workers across the state. Relief is not expected until next week.
Current Conditions and Forecast
Several regions across Queensland are battling scorching temperatures. Longreach, such as, is experiencing particularly intense heat, impacting those who work outdoors. The Bureau of Meteorology https://www.bom.gov.au/ forecasts that conditions will remain hot through the weekend, with temperatures expected to begin cooling down around Tuesday of next week.
Health Risks and Safety Advice
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has warned that extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related death in Australia. Associate professor Julian Rait, AMA vice-president, emphasized the heightened risk for the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing chronic illnesses. https://ama.com.au/
To mitigate these risks, health authorities recommend the following:
* Stay indoors: Limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
* Hydrate: Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
* Avoid strenuous activity: Refrain from sports or heavy exercise during peak heat.
* Seek shade: When outdoors, find shaded areas to avoid direct sun exposure.
* Sun protection: wear sunscreen, hats, and loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Impact on Workers
The heatwave is taking a toll on those who work outdoors. Sam Cronin,an air conditioning installer in Longreach,described working on roofs and in ceilings as feeling “10 degrees hotter” than the actual temperature. He noted that while he has adjusted to the conditions, his apprentice, Bryce Eniffer, is finding it more challenging. The demand for air conditioning installation is highly likely increasing due to the heat, putting further strain on workers.
Long-Term Trends and Climate Change
While heatwaves are a natural part of the Australian climate, experts warn that climate change is increasing their frequency and intensity. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that Australia has warmed by an average of 1.47°C since 1910. https://www.bom.gov.au/climate/change/ This warming trend is expected to continue, leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves in the future.
preparing for Future Heatwaves
As heatwaves become more common, it is indeed crucial for individuals and communities to prepare. This includes developing heatwave action plans, ensuring access to cooling centers, and promoting awareness of heat-related health risks.Further information on heatwave preparedness can be found on the Queensland Government website. https://www.health.qld.gov.au/disaster-and-emergency-services/disaster-events/heatwaves
The current heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the importance of taking precautions during extreme heat events and the need for long-term strategies to address the impacts of climate change. Continued monitoring of the forecast and adherence to safety advice are essential for protecting health and well-being.