NSW Health has advised the high temperatures forecast for this week are expected to contribute to high ozone air pollution across Sydney in the coming days.
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The temperature is expected to hit 36 degrees at Nowra on Thursday, before rising to 39 degrees on Friday.
The mercury hit 30 degrees by 11am in Nowra on Wednesday, before peaking at 36.6 degrees at 2.30pm.
Authorities are reminding people to take extra care during the extreme heat by staying indoors, minimising physical activity and keeping hydrated
Dr Richard Broome, Director of Environmental Health, said ozone exposure can irritate the lungs, and that people with asthma need to follow their Asthma Action Plan and have their relieving medication with them.
“Ozone levels are higher outdoors than indoors, and generally highest in the afternoon and early evening, so limiting time outdoors during the heat of the day and in the evening helps people to not only keep cool but to limit their exposure to ozone pollution,” he said.
“People with asthma and other chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are especially vulnerable to the health effects of ozone.
“Anyone experiencing severe respiratory distress should seek immediate medical help.”
More information can be found at the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/air/Pages/ozone.aspx.
Madeline Crittenden
Madeline Crittenden is a journalist for Fairfax Media at the South Coast Register.
Madeline Crittenden is a journalist for Fairfax Media at the South Coast Register.
