Australia’s deadliest weather threat is getting worse

EXTREME heat affecting parts of northern NSW is being driven by climate pollution from burning coal, oil and gas, according to the Climate Council.

The group says heat is Australia’s deadliest form of extreme weather and poses a growing risk to public health as temperatures rise.

Health data shows heatwaves killed more than 1000 people between 2016 and 2019, making heat more deadly than all other extreme weather events combined.

The Bureau of Meteorology has recorded rising daytime and night-time temperatures across the country, with extreme heat events becoming more frequent.

Scientists say hotter nights are particularly dangerous because the body cannot recover from daytime heat, increasing the risk of heat stress, dehydration and collapse.

Older people, young children, those with pre-existing illness, outdoor workers and people without access to adequate cooling are among the most vulnerable.

Climate Councillor Dr Kate Charlesworth said heat was often underestimated compared with other natural hazards.

“Heat is a silent killer. It has killed more Australians than all other extreme weather events combined,” Dr Charlesworth said.

The Climate Council said cutting climate pollution was essential to limiting worsening heat extremes and protecting community health.