Updated
Health authorities have issued a high ozone warning for western Sydney as New South Wales enters day two of a severe heatwave.
Key points:
- Ozone can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain and coughing
- Temperatures exceeding 40C are expected in several areas across NSW
- Ivanhoe (47C), Penrith (41C), Dubbo (45C) and Broken Hill (44C) are among the hot spots
NSW Health said ozone levels were likely to rise this afternoon due to a combination of heat and sunlight.
Ozone is created when nitrogen oxides from things like car exhausts and air conditioner fumes react with oxygen in the air on hot days.
It is colourless, but pungent, and can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain, coughing and airway inflammation.
Director of Environmental Health Dr Richard Broome said the best way to avoid ozone was to limit time outdoors.
“Ozone levels are higher outdoors than indoors and generally highest in the afternoon and early evening,” Dr Broome said.
“It’s also important for people who have respiratory conditions to be extra cautious.
“If you have asthma make sure you’re following your asthma action plan [and] you’re carrying your reliever puffer on you.
“In case you do have an asthma attack and if your doctor has prescribed a preventer, make sure you’re taking that as well.”
Yesterday, Dr Broome also urged people to minimise physical activity this week and for relatives to keep a vigilant eye on vulnerable family members.
The mercury in Sydney’s CBD is expected to hover around 31 degrees Celsius today, with humidity at 83 per cent.
But the city’s western suburbs are expected to melt.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) said temperatures were expected to climb to 40C in Richmond and 41C in Penrith.
Endeavour Energy said it had put off maintenance today at Glenbrook and Luddenham, with a spokesperson noting all work stops if the mercury hits 40C.
The worst of the heat will be felt inland, with the Riverina hamlet of Ivanhoe expected to reach a scorching 47C.
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