Heatwave - no-so-tropical

We're on the way to breaking a 115-year old record here in Perth as we look down the barrel at our eighth heatwave since November 2011.

What's a heatwave? It's defined as three consecutive days over 35C (95F). The previous record of seven was set in 1977-78.

What does it mean for West Australians? Severe fire warnings (catastrophic in some areas), total fire bans, cancellation or rescheduling of events to avoid the worst of the heat, risk of heat stroke and severe sunburn. And you need to keep your shoes on unless you feel like leaving part of the soles of your feet seared to the pavement :-o

What can you do? Rehydration is critical. And stay out of the sun between 10am - 3pm. Heat stroke is dangerous; it can, and does, kill people every year. Don't light anything flammable outside or use anything that may cause a spark - like some power tools.