In Australia, heat waves cause more deaths and illnesses than any other natural disaster.
The Bureau of Meteorology issues warnings for severe and extreme heat waves to help Australians prepare for and reduce the impacts of extreme heat.
A heatwave is when the maximum and minimum temperature is unusually hot for a particular area over a three day period.
We consider these temperatures in relation to the local climate and recent weather heatwave warnings issued for two types of heatwave.
Severe heatwaves are orange and they're likely to be more challenging for vulnerable people such as the elderly, particularly those with medical conditions.
Extreme heat waves are red and they are rare.
They are a problem for people who don't take actions to keep cool, even those who are healthy.
A warning is issued when a heatwave is forecast within the next four days.
It shows areas heatwave conditions are forecast as well as the expected intensity.
Heatwave warnings consists of four maps which cover a rolling three day forecast.
You can see here how the warnings are staggered, each covering a three-day period which overlaps with the next.
A warning includes the expected maximum and minimum temperatures, the timing of when the heatwave will peak or ease, and the affected communities within the warning area.
These warnings help prepare Australians for heat and provide advice on how to stay safe.
For more information about the Bureau's heatwave warning service visit bom.gov.au/australia/heatwave/ and be sure to check for the latest warnings via the Bureau website and weather app.
Reviewed 08 February 2023