Stawell hit 40 degrees just before 1pm on Friday as most of Western Victoria missed out on a early coastal cool change.
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But there could be some nighttime relief on the way as the Bureau of Meteorology forecast a cool change to hit Horsham between 5pm and 7pm on Friday and Ballarat between 7pm and 9pm.
Ararat’s weather station at Hopkins Correctional Centre has not posted an update since 9.30am on Friday, when the temperature had already hit 29 degrees.
It was a hot Thursday night in Stawell with the temperature hitting 28 degrees just before midnight, while Ararat saw a 6am Friday temperature of 23.4 degrees.
As of 2pm, the hottest place in the Wimmera was Warracknabeal Airport at 44 degrees, followed by Horsham at 43.
The Wimmera region has a health alert active for extreme heat.
Temperatures at or above heat health thresholds have been forecast for today, 19 January 2018.
Protect your health:
- Heat can make anyone sick.
- People over 65, the very young and those with a pre-existing medical condition are most at risk.
- Heat related illness can range from mild conditions, such as a rash or cramps, to heat stroke - which is life threatening.
- It is vital to monitor your health and the health of those around you. Act early.
- To find out more information visit: www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/heat-stress-and-heat-related-illness.
- You should be aware of the risk of heat related illness and take actions early to keep yourself and others safe.
What you should do:
- Drink water Even if you don't feel thirsty, drink water. (Unless your doctor has told you otherwise). Take a bottle with you always.
- Hot cars kill Never leave kids, adults or pets in cars. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes.
- Keep cool Seek out air-conditioned buildings, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light, loose clothing made from natural fabrics.
- Plan ahead Schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and avoid exercising in the heat. If you must go out, wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water with you.
- Help others Look after those most at risk in the heat - your friends and family or your neighbour living alone, the elderly, the young, people with a medical condition and don't forget your pets.
Impacts in your area:
- Power outages are more likely during hot weather due to equipment failures, high demand and the impact of bushfires.
- For information on how to prepare for and deal with power outages visit energyandresources.vic.gov.au/power-outage-guide.