While severe weather can occur at any time of the year, October to April is the peak time for severe weather in Western Sydney. During these months, it is not uncommon to experience conditions such as heatwaves, bushfires, severe thunderstorms and floods.
Western Sydney, home to over 2.5 million people, is typically 6-10 degrees hotter than the rest of the city during extreme heat events. Preparing patients and reminding them of ways they can beat the heat could help reduce heatstroke and sickness caused by too much heat during the warmer months.
Who is Most at Risk in a Heatwave?
While all community are at risk during heatwaves, there are some high-risk groups who are extra vulnerable during extreme weather conditions. Expectant mums and young children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses and outdoor workers need to be extra vigilant to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Helping Patients Stay Cool
Reminding patients to take proactive steps to avoid dehydration and prolonged heat exposure will help lessen the risk of illness. Preparing for a heatwave will give patients and the wider community the best chance of staying safe during extreme weather. Ways in which patients can prepare for a heatwave include:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Monitoring the local temperature and weather conditions
- Avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest times of the day
- Taking frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas
Western Sydney Cool Centres
There are several Western Sydney Cool Centres open to community to help stay cool and get relief from extreme heat. Cool Centres are especially for people who are unable to keep cool at home. These include:
- Blacktown Aquatic Centre: 4 Boyd Street, Blacktown NSW 2148
- Blacktown Showground Precinct Water Play Park: Blacktown Showground, NSW 2148
- Blacktown Uniting Church: 59-65 Bungarribee Road, Blacktown NSW 2148
- Doonside Community Centre: Corner Graham and Hill End Road, Doonside NSW 2767
- Marayong Community Centre: 62 Railway Road, Marayong NSW 2148
- Minchinbury Neighbourhood Centre: 46 Minchin Drive, Minchinbury NSW 2770
- Mount Druitt Hub: 9 Ayers Grove, Mount Druitt NSW 2770
- Mount Druitt Swimming Centre: 7 Mount Street, Mount Druitt NSW 2770
- Parramatta Aquatic Centre: 7A Park Parade, Parramatta NSW 2150
- Parramatta Library (Phive), 5 Parramatta Square, Parramatta NSW 2150
- Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre: 9 Park Street, Riverstone NSW 2765
- Riverstone Swimming Centre: Market Street, Riverstone NSW 2765
- Tregear Community Centre: 108 Ellsworth Drive, Tregear NSW 2770
More information about Western Sydney Cool Centres can be found on relevant council websites.
Where to go
If patients are experiencing symptoms which require additional medical attention or support, GPs can call the Urgent Care Clinician Line on 1800 697 617, Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm.
Call 000 in an emergency.
Additional Resources
We have created a Heatwaves in Western Sydney poster to be displayed in general practices and community areas in Western Sydney to spread awareness. If you would like a copy of the A2 poster, please contact our Virtual Support team at support@wentwest.com.au
The Heatwave Service for Australia webpage provides a forecast for heatwave severity across Australia.
For more information on how to stay well during hot weather, visit the NSW Health Beat the Heat webpage.
Information is correct as of 25 January 2024.