WA heatwave heads south as authorities launch new ‘call for help’ weather service

“Carers of vulnerable people are also encouraged to register, recognising the added pressure and risks extreme heat can place on those providing care,” she said.

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Pressure on the grid in WA has previously led to ongoing power outages during heatwaves, including in suburbs in the Perth area.

Loss of power means airconditioners and fans can’t be run, which can cause significant health issues for vulnerable people.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Angus Hines said there were some towns that would feel the heat more than others on Tuesday.

“Geraldton … stands out with a 46-degree forecast,” he said.

“That heat is spreading down to Perth – 39 degrees in the capital, maybe 40 or higher for some eastern suburbs.

“It’s also going to be really hot up in the North West of the state … for example Exmouth is 40 degrees, but if you drive an hour inland, it could be closer to 48 or 49 degrees.”

The bureau warned there would be severe to extreme heatwave conditions over the next few days, but conditions would be expected to ease later this week.

“Locations likely to be impacted include Carnarvon, Coral Bay, Denham, Geraldton, Gingin, Kalbarri, Marble Bar, Newman, Paraburdoo and Yanchep,” it said.