Summary Overview:
The below APERS blog post “Heatwaves in Australia 2026” outlines the serious health risks posed by extreme heat, particularly during the January 2026 heatwave compounded by power outages. It highlights who is most vulnerable, explains the dangers of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and stresses how hot nights and humidity worsen health impacts. The article provides practical, up-to-date advice on staying safe without air-conditioning, preparing for blackouts, and recognising when urgent help is needed, with a focus on prevention, awareness, and personal safety planning.
Australia’s January 2026 heatwave has been a sharp reminder that extreme heat is not just uncomfortable. It can quickly become dangerous, especially for older people, babies and young children, pregnant people, and anyone with health vulnerabilities.
Hospitals and first responders reported a surge in heat-related illness across the south-east, with one major Melbourne hospital reporting a 25% overnight increase in potentially fatal heat-related presentations during 40°C plus conditions.
At the same time, bushfire conditions and power outages made it harder for many households to cool down safely. In parts of Victoria, tens of thousands of homes lost power during catastrophic fire conditions, which can turn a heatwave into a much bigger health risk. [See the video report by Channel 9 below.]
Below is an updated, practical ‘How to stay safe when temperatures soar and the power goes out’ guide you can use at home, at work, and when checking on loved ones.
Why heatwaves are more dangerous than most people realise
The Bureau of Meteorology notes that heatwaves are Australia’s most deadly natural hazard, and that heatwave warnings are designed to help people prepare and stay safe. [1]
Heat is also deceptive. You can be “coping” right up until you are not.
Hot nights are a big part of the problem. If your body does not cool down overnight, fatigue and dehydration build up, and symptoms can escalate faster the next day.
It is not just the temperature: humidity matters
You have probably heard people say, “But it’s a dry heat.” There is truth in that.
Humidity affects how well sweat evaporates, which is a key way your body cools itself. A temperature can feel far more dangerous when humidity is high, and “wet-bulb” conditions are part of how heat stress risk is assessed. [2]
Who is most at risk in a heatwave?
During the January 2026 heatwave, clinicians identified a higher risk for older people, babies and young children, pregnant people, and those with certain underlying conditions, as well as anyone without access to air conditioning. Tradespeople and outdoor workers were also at increased risk.
Healthy people can also still get into trouble if they exercise or work hard in peak heat, or underestimate how quickly dehydration and overheating can hit.
For workplace heat guidance and first aid considerations, Safe Work Australia provides useful advice. [3]
Heat exhaustion vs heatstroke: what to watch for
If someone is unwell in the heat, treat it seriously and act early.
Heat exhaustion can include:
- heavy sweating
- weakness or dizziness
- headache
- nausea
- pale, clammy skin
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. People can die from Heatstroke. Symptoms can include confusion, collapse, very hot skin, and worsening condition. If you think it could be heatstroke, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Healthdirect provides a clear overview of heatstroke symptoms and what to do. [4]
For more on early warning signs, see our APERS guide here titled: ‘Signs of heat stress to look out for‘.
What to do right now if someone is heat-affected
Move fast, but keep it simple:
- Get the person into a cooler place (air-conditioning if possible).
- Cool them down: cool shower, wet cloths, misting with a fan, and/or cool packs applied to the neck, armpits, and groin.
- Fluids: small sips of water if they are alert and able to swallow.
- Do not “wait and see” if symptoms are severe, confusion is present, or they are getting worse. Call 000.
Queensland Health has additional hot weather safety guidance. [5]
Heatwave safety at home: A checklist that works
We previously wrote a blog post titled ‘Quick tips to stay safe in heatwaves‘.
Below is an updated, 2026-focused checklist that also accounts for blackouts and bushfire days. [6]
1) Keep the heat out early:
Close blinds, curtains and awnings early in the day. Use fans and/or air-conditioning if available.
2) Plan for cool zones:
If your home is hot and you have no air-conditioning, plan ahead a “cool place” where you can visit – eg. a library, shopping centre, or community centre.
3) Hydrate steadily:
Do not wait until you feel thirsty. Drink water regularly throughout the day, and go easy on alcohol and sugary drinks.
4) Dress for the weather:
Light, loose-fitting clothing is helpful, especially when made from breathable fabrics.
5) Re-plan the day:
Shift errands, exercise, gardening and dog walks into cooler hours. If you must be outside, take more breaks than usual.
Where a personal alarm can help in extreme heat
Heatwaves can cause sudden dizziness, fainting, or confusion, and that can be frightening when you are alone.
For people who are at higher risk, a personal alarm can add a layer of reassurance:
- APERS Home Companion: an in-home personal alarm with a pendant or wriststrap for press-to-call support at home.
- APERS Freedom Friend: a mobile SOS pendant (personal safety device) designed for help when you are out and about.
Practical tip: During the heat season, keep your device charged and keep a charging routine that still works if you need to leave home quickly.
References:
[1] Bureau of Meteorology: heatwaves in Australia: https://www.bom.gov.au/resources/learn-and-explore/heatwave-knowledge-centre
[2] Bureau of Meteorology: Thermal Comfort observations: https://www.bom.gov.au/info/thermal_stress/
[3] Safe Work Australia: first aid for heat-related illness:
https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/hazards/working-heat/first-aid-heat-related-illness
[4] Healthdirect: heatstroke:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heatstroke
[5] Queensland Government: hot weather health and safety:
https://www.qld.gov.au/health/staying-healthy/environmental/heatsafe
[6] Better Health Channel: extreme heat:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/extreme-heat
APERS: Quick Tips to Stay Safe in Heatwaves:
https://www.apers.com.au/quick-tips-to-stay-safe-in-heatwaves/
APERS: Signs of Heat Stress to Look Out For
https://www.apers.com.au/signs-of-heat-stress-to-look-out-for/
