Cook Shire Council is advising residents that severe to extreme heatwave conditions are forecast for Far North Queensland over the coming days, with the Bureau of Meteorology warning that temperatures will continue to rise across the region from Monday 24 November through to Wednesday 26 November.
While the statewide warning covers most of Queensland, the Peninsula district — including the Cook Shire region — is expected to experience extreme heatwave conditions. Temperatures are forecast to reach the mid- to high-30s along the coast and into the low 40s inland, with overnight temperatures remaining warm and offering little relief.
These conditions may pose increased health risks, particularly for older residents, young children, people with existing health conditions, and those working outdoors.
- Council is urging the community to take precautions, including:
- Staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
- Keeping homes as cool as possible by closing blinds and using fans or air conditioning
- Checking on vulnerable neighbours, friends, and family
- Ensuring pets and livestock have shade and constant access to water
- Never leaving children or animals in parked vehicles
Conditions across the south and west of the state are expected to ease by mid-week, however heatwave conditions are likely to persist across the north, including Cook Shire.
Council will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
Residents can also stay up to date by monitoring Bureau of Meteorology warnings and following advice from Queensland Health and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.