For grey nomads in most parts of the country it has been – and continues to be – an absolute scorcher!
The Bureau of Meteorology says a monster heatwave extended from Western Australia, across South Australia and into NSW and Victoria.
Maximum temperatures were said to have been between 9 to 15 degrees above average in the four states yesterday.
Weather service Weatherzone says the heat trough is moving eastwards and New South Wales will be worst affected today.
In western Sydney, temperatures are set to climb above 40C. Broken Hill and Bourke have seen temperatures of 41C over this weekend, while the hottest temperatures were said to be in nearby Tibooburra where it was expected to reach 42C.
Temperatures will hit 40 degrees and beyond in parts of NSW. PIC: Geralt / Pixabay
“Some locations in NSW on Sunday could exceed their maximum temperature record for the month of March, especially on and west of the ranges,” a BOM spokesperson told 9News.
Relief though is in sight for everyone sweating their way through the ‘unseasonable’ conditions. Cooler temperatures are forecast for the days ahead. However, no rain is forecast and warm conditions are still expected to continue throughout inland NSW, Victoria and WA throughout next week.
Grey nomads have a lot of different approaches to keeping their cool in the summer depending on their rig, where they like to camp, and in which part of the country they are going to be travelling.
Air con, of course, is the best way to guarantee ‘sensible’ temperatures in the van but it can be a huge draw on power resources, particularly for travellers spending extended periods out in the bush.
A more sustainable option for many is to install electric fans, and these can supply instant relief in even the most sweltering of conditions.
Making use of the awning or pulling down the blinds is also an easy way to keep the in-van temperature that bit lower.
Another obvious heat-busting trick is to park up in the shade if and when possible, and it’s always a tad cooler to camp near water.
For grey nomads not using air con, it also makes sense to encourage air flow through the caravan or motorhome by opening the windows, and to cook outside when practical to do so.
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Not coping, really, had a meet today with another forum member, while he is staying in our area. We were under trees, and had a breeze but it was steamy hot, here in the mountains. Had a good time, but couldn’t wait to get home to the A/C
These days, the media call any hot weather a heat wave, it sounds more sensational.
It used to be called a normal Australian Summer in days gone by.
When did we get so wimpish. Summer temperatures around the world exceed those we get now and always have in Australia. If you want to think it is hot – go ahead. If you think it – you’ll be hot.