Northern Territory Government
NT Health
Extreme heat health warning issued for Greater Darwin
13 December 2024
NT Health has issued extreme heat health warnings for locations in the Barkly, Daly, Gregory and Tiwi regions, with high maximum temperatures forecast over the next three days.
Extreme heat health warnings are in place for:
Barkly region: Alpurrurulam, Tennant CreekDaly region: NauiyuGregory region: Daguragu, Timber CreekTiwi region: Milikapiti
While the Northern Territory (NT) has naturally warm to hot weather, heat health warnings indicate that conditions have exceeded normal levels and the community needs to take personal action to protect themselves and others.
Even the most acclimatised NT residents can be affected by heat stress, with an increased body temperature having potentially serious or even fatal affects.
Extreme heat can be deadly – heatwaves already cause more deaths than any other natural hazard.
The people most likely to be affected by extreme heat conditions include children, people aged over 65 years, people living alone, people living in housing without adequate cooling or ventilation, people who are socially isolated, people who have chronic health conditions and people who are taking medications that affect the body’s ability to regulate heat. Pets and animals can also be impacted by heat stress.
In response to heat health warnings, the community should:
Stay cool in air-conditioning where possible or seek out shady areas with a breezeStay hydrated by drinking cold or iced waterWear protective clothing, including a wide brimmed hat, light loose clothing and apply SPF 50+ sunscreenAvoid alcohol and caffeinated drinksPlan ahead and monitor for heat health warningsKnow the signs of heat stress and help othersLook after those most at risk including children and older people, as well as pets.
Symptoms of heat stress include:
Tiredness and lethargyHeadacheDizziness or faintingConfusion leading to poor decision makingMuscle crampsFeeling thirstyUrinating less often.
People who feel they may be suffering from heat stress should take immediate action to bring their temperature down. If symptoms persist, they should seek medical advice. If they are worried, they should call triple zero (000) immediately.
