Heatwaves

Hobart is known for its cool weather but in summer can suffer through a number of very hot days one after the other, called heatwaves.

Heatwaves and extreme heat can impact anyone's health. They can also increase the risk of fires.

Some members in our community are particularly vulnerable to heatwaves and need to take special care.

This includes:

babies and young children
older people, especially those living on their own
those pregnant or breastfeeding
people who live on their own or who don't live close to others
people who work outdoors or are physically active
people with a chronic health condition or who take certain types of medications.

It's important to know who is at risk, what can happen, how to stay safe and help keep others safe.

How to prepare for heatwaves

Check local weather forecasts so you know when hot weather is coming and can plan ahead.
Find ways to make your home or building cooler. Light coloured window coverings, awnings and shade cloth can help cool homes and buildings.
Check fans, air-conditioners, refrigerators and freezers are working properly before the beginning of summer.
Ensure you have enough food, medicine and other supplies to avoid going out during a heatwave or if electricity supply is interrupted.
If you have a medical condition, ask your doctor for advice on how to manage the heat.
Make a list of family, friends and neighbours you might want to check on and ensure you have their current contact details.
Think about your pets and how you will keep them healthy, hydrated and cool.
Find out more on the Tasmanian Department of health website.

Video: Stay healthy in the heat - Department of Health

Easy read guide: How to cope in a heatwave - Council for Intellectual Disability

Animated video with Auslan: Be heatwave ready - Ipswich City Council

Monitor conditions

The Bureau of Meteorology issues heatwave warnings on its website.

Stay up to date with local weather conditions on the TasALERT website and install their app on your phone.

Information relevant to Hobart will also be posted on the City of Hobart Facebook page.

Stay protected during a heatwave

Stay hydrated map of drinking fountains.
Check on family, friends and those most at risk – elderly and young children.
Stay out of the sun, seek shade or take shelter.
Choose lighter clothing to help keep your body cool.
Cool your house or find somewhere with air conditioning.
Food safety risks in the heat.
Check on your pets.

Quick facts

By 2050, Hobart will experience more frequent and severe heatwaves, with the average number of days a year over 30 degrees Celsius doubling from four in 2010 to eight in 2050.

Urban areas will potentially be 10-15 degrees Celsius hotter than surrounding areas due to the urban heat island effect. In Tasmania, heatwaves raise mortality rates by nine per cent and increase ambulance dispatches by up to 34 per cent.