Heat Health Awareness

The Australian Red Cross is partnering with sweltering cities and communities across Australia to mark Extreme Heat Awareness Day on 4 February 2026 and drive action on extreme heat risks.

Extreme heat is Australia’s deadliest natural hazard. It causes more deaths than bushfires, cyclones, and floods combined. Rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense, putting lives at risk, especially vulnerable members of our community, including older people, those living alone, and people with health conditions. Queensland is experiencing an increase in the frequency and duration of heat waves, including higher humidity and higher overnight temperatures. 

Learn what you can do to stay safe during these conditions and visit the Get Ready Queensland website for more information about who is at risk and how to stay safe during hot weather.

The Australian Red Cross has provided a heat wave fact sheet and other resources via their website.

Resources for health professionals

Heat-related illnesses include dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke and symptoms can vary between people. Find out more information about heat-related illness in English and other languages.

Queensland Health has provided a Heat Health Management Guide for professionals to prepare patients and staff during hot weather.