Hot, humid conditions are expected to stick around for much of the week, with top temperatures of 38 degrees forecast over the next four days from Tuesday. 

Temperatures are set to reach 35 by Thursday, with the mercury set to climb to 38 on Friday. 

The blast of warmth will bring “severe heatwave” conditions to much of the Illawarra forecast area, with western parts of the region set to swelter through an “extreme heatwave”, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

The high temps are the result of a slow-moving high pressure system over the Tasman Sea, combined with a trough that extends from central Australia to the southern inland of New South Wales.  

“The trough is drawing a hot air from central Australia over much of New South Wales while the high will prevent cold fronts from moving into the state,” the bureau said.

“This is leading to a build-up of heat, resulting in severe to extreme heatwave conditions in most districts by mid week.”

The pattern looks set to break down on the weekend, with a cooler change set to push through the region. But in the meantime, the bureau has warned residents to stay cool. 

“Remember to ensure you, and those around you, stay cool and hydrated,” BoM meteorologist Jonathon How said.

By 10am Tuesday, temperatures had already reached 28 degrees in Nowra. In response to the heat, the Rural Fire Service issued a total fire ban for the Illawarra Shoalhaven region, with a ‘very high’ fire danger rating. 

Surf Life Saving NSW  has issued a warning to swimmers heading to our waterways to escape the heat, following the drowning death of a man at Kiama on Monday. 

“The tragedies unfolding every day across our waterways is heart-breaking for families, communities and our rescuers. We will continue to do what we can to keep people safe but we need your help,” Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce said. 

“Swim where we can see you, don’t leave children on their own around water, even for a second and be realistic about your swimming abilities and those of your family.”