THE Bureau of Meteorology has issued heat and fire dangers in south-east Australia, as residents brace for a week of 40-plus degree days.

A Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson said a significant and prolonged heatwave is building over much of central and south-eastern Australia.

“This will really only peak next week for most people,” the spokesperson said.

“We do have heatwave warnings current for much of South Australia and the country’s interior, Victoria, inland New South Wales and southern inland Queensland, and these will continue well into

“From today (January 24), we are expecting a run of very hot days and nights, reaching the high-30s to low-40s on the coast and the mid- to high40s inland.”

Temperatures in Moree over the next week are expected to be in the low- to mid-40s, with a peak of 45 degrees on Wednesday.

“We may even see some records being challenged or new records being set, particularly for northern Victoria, western New South Wales and southern inland Queensland.”

Australian Red Cross Director of Recovery and Resilience, Nichola Krey said heatwaves are not “just another hot day”.

“Extreme heat can be extremely dangerous, and it’s vital that people have a plan to keep cool, especially those who are vulnerable, older or unwell,” Ms Krey said.

“When temperatures rise, simple steps like keeping hydrated, staying indoors and wearing light clothing can make a significant difference. We also encourage everyone to check in on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbours – make sure they have enough groceries and any essential medications, so they don’t need to head outside for supplies during extreme conditions.

“Australian Red Cross offers a number of useful heatwave resources on its website which detail what people can do to stay cool in the lead up and during a heatwave.”

Royal Australian College of GPs encourages the public to prioritise hydration, rest indoors, and check in on people more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

RACGP president, Dr Michael Wright, said that high temperatures pose many health risks.

“Heat waves can be deadly, and the Bureau of Meteorology has warned that this promises to be the ‘most significant’ heatwave south-eastern Australia has seen in six years,” Dr Wright said.

“My advice for all Australians is to drink plenty of water, try to stay indoors if possible during those peak UV hours of 11am to 3pm, and remember to ‘slip, slop, slap’, It’ also important to check in on friends and family members who are more vulnerable to the impact of heat waves, including older people.”

Dr Wright warned again complacency.

“As Australians, we’re accustomed to hot weather. However, we must not underestimate the serious health effects that can occur – even for young and healthy people,” he said.

“Heat waves have caused the most hospitalisations related to extreme weather over the last decade, and the risk of hospitalisation increases with age.

“Almost one third of hospitalisations relating to extreme heat occur in people aged 65 and over. Keep in mind though that it’s not only older patients who can experience severe health issues when temperatures rise. If someone cannot seek reprieve from soaring temperatures this can place an enormous strain on their body.

“So, please spread the word to people in your life – stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay indoors if you can.

“At the same time, please make sure to check in on people in your life to ensure they’re okay.

“This includes not only older patients, but also infants, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as people with chronic disease and those with conditions that may impair sweating,” Dr Wright said.