The mercury is expected to soar throughout the Wimmera throughout the week, with two days forecast cracking the 40 degree mark.
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Tuesday is expected to be the warmest day of the week, with a top of 43 degrees forecast for Stawell. There will be little respite on Wednesday, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a maximum of 40 degrees.
While it will cool down to 36 and 31 degrees for Thursday and Friday respectively, overnight temperatures above the 20 degree mark could make for an uncomfortable night’s sleep.
Stawell could go close to breaking a record for its hottest January day ever, with the current highest sitting at 44 degrees recorded in 2014.
The pool proved a popular way for community members to cool down as the mercury soared on Monday, with Stawell hitting a top of 39.2 degrees at 5.30pm.
Read more: Statewide total fire ban declared
BOM Victoria senior forecaster Michael Efron said these temperatures were typical for this time of year.
“It’s not quite record breaking, but still very high,” he said.
“Certainly Wimmera residents will experience some extreme conditions and some hot nights ahead, but they should see some relief on Thursday – although it’s still expected to reach 37 degrees.”
Community groups will look to provide respite during the week, with organisations such as Stawell Neighbourhood House, Grampians Community Health and the Stawell Library opening their air-conditioned doors.
Mr Efron said residents could expect a cooler change during the weekend.
“The trend towards the weekend will be cooler conditions in the low to mid 30s as a low pressure trough approaches from the west,” he said.
“There will certainly be some more instances during the rest of January and into February where the Wimmera has three or four very hot days in a row, however it will be less likely later in late February.”
The Country Fire Authority has declared a Total Fire Ban day for the whole state on Tuesday with a fire danger rating of “very high”.
A Total Fire Ban day has not been declared for Wednesday with a fire danger rating of “severe”.
“Heat health alerts have been issued for Monday in Mallee, North Central, Northern Country and North East. There will be no respite from the heat this evening so prepare now and stay hydrated,” A CFA spokesperson said.
“Hot conditions are forecast this week, with a heatwave developing. Be attuned to the conditions in your area, and download the VicEmergency app to stay up to date with the latest emergency information.”
Health advice from CFA:
- Drink plenty of water. Always take a bottle with you.
- 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, draw your blinds, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light and 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.
- Check-in on others. Look after those most at risk in the heat – your neighbour living alone, the elderly, the young, people with a medical condition and don’t forget your pets.
- Call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024 or see your doctor if you are unwell. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
