Hot and humid is the weather forecast for the Australia Day long-weekend.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology temperatures are expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius along the coast.
It is going to be even hotter further up the valley with temperatures forecast to hit 36 degrees in Maitland, 38 in Singleton and almost 40 in Muswellbrook and Scone.
Bureau meteorologist Sarah Fitton said the forecast for ‘oppressively hot’ conditions spreads across much for the state for the Australia Day long-weekend.
“Tropical moisture feeding down from Queensland will increase humidity during the weekend,” she said.
“This is an unusual situation, as this humidity rises it will feel muggy and uncomfortable and increase the likeliness of heat stress.”
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With high temperatures arriving just in time for the public holiday, Surf Life Saving NSW has released a safety reminder for beachgoers.
“There are a number of simple ways you can help ensure you and your family have a safe and enjoyable time on the beach,” NSW Lifesaving manager Matt du Plessis said.
“Always swim at a patrolled location between the flags and very importantly, understand how to spot and survive a rip.
“Lifesavers and lifeguards are out in force but we need the public to take some responsibility for their own safety, and sadly the tragic incidents we have witnessed are a reminder of the power of the ocean.”
There have been 23 fatalities at NSW beaches since July, and 13 of these deaths have been recorded since the beginning of December.
Just last week Newcastle Herald reported lifeguards at Redhead Beach have had one of their busiest starts to the year. Lifeguards pulled 46 people from the surf on January 12 alone.
Mr du Plessis said with the expected heat and large crowds, safety needed to be taken seriously.
“It’s important for everyone to take care in the hot weather, particularly those at higher risk of heat illness. So if you feel distressed at all please seek medical aid.”
The Bureau or Meteorology has also warned of rapidly changing conditions over the long-weekend, including increased fire danger and possible thunderstorms.
