Heatwaves

Heatwaves are periods of unusually hot weather where the maximum and minimum temperatures are unusually hot over 3 days. In the Bellingen Shire heatwaves will generally occur from October to the end of March. 

As climate change is resulting in more hot and intense heatwaves in Australia, it is important to be aware that heatwaves are our deadliest natural hazard.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) now forecasts heatwaves during the warmer months of the year. When in operation the warnings can be found here: Heatwave Service for Australia

As outlined in the State Heatwave Sub Plan, arrangements will be implemented by NSW Ambulance on advice from BOM of a forecast for ‘Severe’ or ‘Extreme’ heatwave warnings for any area affected by Heatwave. Their advice for the Mid North Coast resides here: Heatwave Warnings Mid North Coast

In order to Beat the Heat this summer please refer to NSW Health's advice. 

 

Preparations

As summer draws closer, it is important to prepare for the warmer months and the potential heatwaves that come along with them. 

  • Check operation, service or install air conditioners or fans in your home. 

  • Check in with friends, family, and neighbours to create a support network and action plan. 

  • If you have a health condition and require medication, check with your doctor to see what to do in warmer weather. 

  • Solar heat gain through windows can raise indoor temperatures. Installing curtains or blinds will help keep your home cooler. 

  • Alternately, you can install external awnings, shutters, or shade sails. 

  • Proper insulation will also aid in reducing indoor temperature when it's hot outside.  

  • Long term heat reduction techniques include painting your roof a light colour to reduce heat absorption, planting out your garden to optimise shade or swapping out hard surfaces for drought tolerant gardens.  

  • If you rely on rainwater, check your tank system is in good order. Clean gutters and consider if you need to invest in more storage. Get the contact details for your local water cartage company in case you need to fill your tanks. 

Watertank.jpg

 

Blackouts

Heatwaves place the electrical grid under great stress which can lead to blackouts. This can occur due to heightened demand, bushfires or involuntary load shedding. Preparing for a potential power outage is important. Here are some items you may want to collect into a blackout emergency kit: 

  • Torch and batteries 

  • Candles and matches 

  • List of key phone numbers  

  • Battery powered radio 

  • First aid kit 

  • Battery pack to charge your mobile phone 

  • Esky and ice 

  • 10L of water per person 

As power outages can disrupt water supplies make sure you have plenty stored at home somewhere easily accessible.  

It is also important to make sure that your car is fuelled up in case you need to leave. If it is parked in a garage, make sure that you can manually open the door. 

Emergency Kit.jpg

 

Pets & Wildlife

Pets: 

  • Where possible bring pets indoors on hot days. 

  • Never leave animals in a hot vehicle, garage or shed. 

  • Provide access to cool shady areas. 

  • Never walk your dog on hot pavements, roads or sand. 

  • Leave multiple containers of water in a shady area.  

  • Make sure enclosures are out of direct sunlight.  

  • Some animals will appreciate a frozen water bottle to lean against and regulate their body temperature. 

Puppies.jpg

 

Wildlife: 

  • Leaving containers of water in cool places around your garden will be greatly appreciated by local wildlife. Consider smaller insects and animals may need a shallow dish with rocks in it so they don't drown. Place containers in sheltered areas such as under a small bush where the animal will feel safe from predators.  

  • Being mindful to watch water restrictions, you can create a cool refuge by watering down a section of your garden to create a cool, damp haven for visiting animals. 

  • It is recommended not to disturb animals recovering in your garden and it is not advisable to feed them.  

  • However, if you have recognised that an animal is not well, suffering from heat stress and may require help, then please contact WIRES Mid North Coast 

Australian Wildlife.jpg

 

Ways to stay cool in the Shire

If you or someone you know is unable to keep cool at home, then there are a few options of places to go to cool down.  

Indoor spaces, out of direct sunshine that have air-conditioning, are a great place to regulate your body temperature and stay relaxed. In the Bellingen shire some good options include: 

  • Bellingen Library  

Open Tuesday – Saturday  

39 Hyde St, 
Bellingen NSW 2454 

(02) 6655 1744   

 

  • Dorrigo Library  

Open Tuesday – Saturday 

1 Pine Street, Dorrigo NSW 2453   

(02) 6657 2234 

 

  • Urunga Library  

Open Tuesday – Saturday  

32 Bonville St, Urunga NSW 2455 

(02) 66556444 

 

Whether in a pool, the Bellinger River or one of our Shire's beautiful beaches, submerging yourself in cool water is a great way to bring your body temperature down.

If you are happy to go further afield to keep cool, then heading out of the Bellingen Shire can be a good option. Going to the movies, shopping centres or indoor entertainment zones are something to consider. 

 

 

Related Information

Back to top