NSW residents and visitors are urged to stay safe as a wave of hot weather moves through the state over the next three days.
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The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting temperatures to hit the mid-40s with minimum temperatures remaining in the mid 20s overnight.
Conditions are expected to cool on Sunday with a southerly change and possible showers or storms developing.
This severe to extreme heatwave pattern is expected to peak Friday and Saturday across NSW.
Police and emergency services are urging everyone in NSW to remember the four key messages to keep healthy in the heat:
1. Drink plenty of water and limit hot, sugary, or alcoholic beverages
2. Keep cool and, if possible, stay in an air conditioned room
3. Take care of others and visit or contact those at risk of heat-related illness
4. Have a plan. Know who to contact if you need assistance and seek medical advice if you feel unwell.
While it is advised to avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, large crowds are still expected at NSW beaches, rivers, lakes, and swimming pools.
State Emergency Operation Controller NSW Police Force Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys urged those cooling off by the water to be vigilant, and stay safe.
"Anyone swimming in unfamiliar waterways is urged to take extra care - every year thousands of people require rescuing from the surf and many needlessly drown," Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.
"Special care should be taken when swimming in rivers and dams where submerged objects may pose unexpected risks.
"I want to send a strong message to parents: if your children are out swimming, whether that is at the beach, a river, a dam or your backyard pool, and regardless of their age - they need to be supervised.
"It is also strongly recommended that beach and marine users head out early, enjoy the cooler part of the day and head home before the strong winds arrive."
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast 20-30 knot sea breezes for the coastal areas later today and tomorrow.
"Boat users in and around our waterways need to take note of these warnings and plan their day," Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.
"Don't get caught off guard. Plan ahead and ensure you are either back on land or safely anchored when the wind storm arrives."
Motorists are reminded it is never okay to leave children, the elderly, or pets unattended in a car - even with the air conditioning running.
NSW Police has warned that it is not only dangerous, but can be deadly.
Members of the public should also be aware of the increased risk of bushfires on days with high temperature, especially when combined with windy conditions.
In the event of an emergency, call 000 (Triple Zero).
