Toowoomba Regional Council is urging residents to guard against the extreme heat that is forecast across the region in the coming days.
Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald said the Bureau of Meteorology had forecast extremely high temperatures for most of Queensland, which would persist until the weekend at the earliest.
He said residents attending the Region’s civic Australia Day functions this Sunday should take heed of the weather forecasts.
He said the Bureau’s forecast indicated the Toowoomba Region would be affected by severe heatwave conditions, which would see both minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in the next three days far higher than the average seasonal temperatures for January.
“Extreme heat can be particularly dangerous, and residents should take measures to avoid working outdoors, especially in the middle of the day,” Cr McDonald said.
“Even indoor workers and residents who do not have access to air conditioning need to take preventative measures where possible.
“Apart from keeping curtains and blinds drawn and using fans, residents without air conditioning could consider visiting public facilities such as libraries, swimming pools or shopping centres in the hottest part of the day to avoid otherwise stifling conditions.
“Young children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with pe-existing medical conditions are most at risk, but heat stress can affect anyone.
“Residents should drink plenty of water, stay out of direct sunlight and check on neighbours in the coming week.”
Cr McDonald said residents attending events, particularly Council’s civic Australia Day functions on January 26 should ensure they have a hat, apply sunscreen and stay in shaded areas as much as possible.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting the chance of a southerly change later in the week which is likely to offer some respite from the extreme heat.