05/02/2026
Heatwaves have been called a “silent killer”, and the data support it.licHealth
According to 9News, heatwaves cause more deaths and hospital admissions in Australia each year than any other natural hazard. Yet unlike cyclones or floods, they often go unnoticed until the damage is already done.
That’s why there are growing calls to name heatwaves, similar to cyclones, to improve public awareness and risk communication. Spain introduced heatwave naming in 2022, and Australian experts say the approach could help heat events “stick in people’s minds” and improve media reporting.
What defines a heatwave?
The Bureau of Meteorology classifies a heatwave as:
• Unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures
• Lasting three days or more
• With little overnight cooling, preventing recovery
Between 2012 and 2022, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported:
• 293 heat-related deaths
• 7,104 hospitalisations linked to extreme heat
Experts warn that heatwaves are particularly hazardous for older Australians, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, and those who may not notice the rising temperatures early enough to take precautions.
Whether heatwaves are named or not, one thing is clear:
Extreme heat is a serious health risk — and preparation matters.
Managing heat exposure early, especially during prolonged hot periods, can reduce heat stress and support safety at work, during sport, and in everyday life.
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