A scorcher for Ipswich as national records feel the heat
LATEST: Australia-wide records have been broken for the longest heatwave and the highest average daily temperature this week, and the sizzling weather has set in at Ipswich today.
The forecast of 41C is just 3.3C cooler than the highest temperature on record for Ipswich, which was recorded on January 6, 1994.
According to BoM, the record-breaking six-day national heatwave could continue, with more days with temperatures above 39C expected.
Ambulance service at the ready with mercury set for 41C
Click here for latest readings on Ipswich weather
Click here for the Ultraviolet (UV) Index Forecast
3AM: IPSWICH will be among the Queensland regions worst hit by extreme heat today, with the mercury predicted to climb to 41C.
Residents have been warned to prepare for very hot weather, and the Queensland Ambulance Service is expecting a rise in calls to people suffering heat-related illnesses.
Queensland Health chief health officer Jeannette Young advised people to drink plenty of cool water and stay indoors during hot weather, and use wet towels and baths to cool down if necessary.
QAS Acting Commissioner David Eeles said hot weather often resulted in an increased workload for the ambulance staff.
Dr Young said symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion usually developed over a couple of days, and heat stroke had the potential to be life-threatening.
Suspected heat stroke victims needed urgent medical attention.
BoM has forecast some relief from the heat later in the week, with a maximum of 36C expected tomorrow and Friday.
Temperatures are predicted to then rise to 38C on Saturday and 39C on Sunday and Monday next week.
The highest temperature recorded this year was 38.4C on Wednesday, January 2.
