The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an emergency warning for severe to extreme heatwave and storm conditions forecast to affect far northern, northern, and central Queensland from Sunday.
Regions expected to experience these conditions include Cape York Peninsula, Mackay, Cooktown, Port Douglas, Cairns, Atherton, Ingham, Townsville, Charters Towers, and surrounding areas.
These areas are already facing heatwave conditions, which are predicted to intensify over the weekend and persist into next week.
Residents are advised to plan and prepare for the severe heat. It is important to monitor weather updates through the Bureau's Heatwave Service, store food and medication at safe temperatures, and prepare for potential power outages.
Anyone with medical conditions should follow their doctor's advice.
To stay cool, people are encouraged to remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day and keep windows and doors closed to block out the heat.
Using air conditioning or fans is recommended if available.
Outdoor activities should be limited, and sun safety measures, such as wearing a hat, long sleeves, light clothing, and sunscreen, should be observed.
Hydration is critical during a heatwave.
Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily is recommended, while avoiding alcohol, sugary drinks, and caffeinated beverages.
Clear to light straw-coloured urine is a good indicator of proper hydration.
It is essential to check on elderly or vulnerable friends, neighbours, and relatives who may need assistance during this period.
Children and pets should never be left in parked cars under any circumstances.
Heat stress can lead to serious health issues such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
For advice, contact 13 HEALTH on 13 43 25 or visit your doctor.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Further information and updates can be found on the Bureau's Heatwave Service website.
Queenslanders have also been warned to brace for more damaging thunderstorms as strong winds, heavy rain, and hailstones are forecast to impact large parts of the state tonight.
The Bureau of Meteorology has highlighted the Gympie, South Burnett, and Cherbourg areas as the most affected regions as dangerous conditions move across the state.
After several days of wild weather, experts indicate the stormy conditions are unlikely to ease for a few more days.
Warnings have been issued for heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and large hailstones.
The warning applies to parts of the Central Highlands and Coalfields, Capricornia, Wide Bay and Burnett, Maranoa and Warrego, and Darling Downs and various parts of SEQ.
Residents in these areas are urged to remain vigilant, monitor updates from the Bureau of Meteorology, and take precautions to stay safe during these hazardous weather conditions.
