Media Release

Northern Territory Government

NT Health Extreme heat alert for Arnhem and Daly districts

28 October 2022

High temperatures and extreme heat conditions are forecast for the Arnhem and Daly weather districts including Darwin and the rural area for the next three days.

Extreme heat conditions are forecast from tomorrow Saturday 29 October up to, and including Monday 31 October 2022. Severe heat conditions are forecast for the same period across the Tiwi weather district.

Extreme heat warnings form part of a new Australian Warning System and are issued when maximum and minimum temperatures are forecast to be unusually hot over a three-day period. Forecast minimum and maximum temperatures are also compared to the long-term history of a location as well as temperatures over the last 30 days.

NT Health encourages all residents and visitors to take appropriate precautions to avoid heat stress (also known as heat stroke) and dehydration.

To avoid heat related illness the community should:

Stay cool in air-conditioning where possible or seek out shady areas with a breezeDrink cold or iced waterDecrease physical activityWear lightweight, light-coloured, loose clothes and a wide-brimmed hatGet into cold water or apply cold substances to the bodyUse fans and damp towels if you don’t have air-conditioning

Symptoms of heat stress:

Tiredness and lethargyHeadacheDizziness or faintingConfusion leading to poor decision makingMuscle crampsFeeling thirstyUrinating less often

People who feel they may be suffering from heat stress should take immediate action to bring their temperature down. If symptoms persist, seek medical advice. If you are worried, call triple zero (000) immediately.

For more information on extreme heat visit [https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/health-conditions-treatments/heat-stress]

For more information on heatwaves visit the Bureau's heatwave knowledge centre Heatwave Service for Australia [file:///C:/Users/Lpike1/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/NH6FSPV2/bom.gov.au]

Quotes attributed to Dr Jacqueline Murdoch, Chief Health Officer, NT Health:

“In Australia, extreme heat results in more community deaths than bushfires, floods, cyclones, and severe storms combined.

“Even the most acclimatised NT residents can be affected by heat stress, with an increased body temperature having potentially serious or even fatal effects.

“It’s important Territorians and visitors are prepared and take action to avoid heat related illness. Ensure you and your family have access to cool water and make sure you take care of those who are vulnerable or isolated as well as your pets and animals.”

Unsubscribe https://ntgovernmentagencies.createsend1.com/t/t-u-ahuokt-l-y/