Set for a scorcher as temperature ready to climb

YAMBA Ocean Swims organisers could see an influx of late entries, but not just because more people want to compete in the community event.

HEATING UP: Plenty of people will be looking to cool off on Sunday. Picture: Northern Star

YAMBA Ocean Swims organisers could see an influx of late entries, but not just because more people want to compete in the community event. Going by the prediction for Sunday's maximum temperature there may be plenty of people just wanting to jump in to cool down.

Weather services are tipping a scorching 41 degrees maximum for Grafton, with the heatwave throughout the Valley.

Weatherzone meteorologist Kim Westcott said there would be some relief with a cool change coming.

"There is a really hot air mass lying to the west of Grafton," she said.

"In fact, it will be hot across much of the country.

"North-westerly winds will blow the hot air in and send the temperaturerising. The good news is it is likely to be an isolated day of extreme temperature.

"Monday will be cooler and a lot nicer."

Ms Westcott said if the predicted cool change arrived during the day, the maximum may reach "only" 36-37 degrees

However, if it arrives later, then the daytime temperate will keep rising.

"Everyone will know when the change arrives because we are expecting quite strong southerly winds," Ms Westcott said.

In the longer term, she predicted regular showers to continue until at least mid-January but said the rain would be more persistent than the downpours of the past two summers.

STAYING COOL

Stay out of the direct sun and keep hydrated.

Do outdoor work early.

Head to places with good air-conditioning - shopping centres, pubs and clubs, cinemas.

Have a swim - just remember to slip, slop, slap and don't stay in the sun for too long.

Stock the freezer with cold treats and ice.

Give pets access to water and shade.

Originally published as Set for a scorcher as temperature ready to climb