Inland fire warnings and dangerous coastal conditions has lifeguards and fireys on high alert

The Mid-North Coast is on high-alert this weekend with a concoction of hot weather, severe fire warnings and problematic surf conditions providing for a perfect storm scenario.

Hot weather conditions will bring severe fire warning for Sunday. Picture Nathan Edwards.

The Mid-North Coast will be on high-alert this weekend with authorities predicting a severe fire warning for Sunday and the likelihood of some unpleasant surf conditions.

NSW Rural Fire Services is predicting a severe fire danger for the Mid-North Coast on Sunday, and the very real chance of a total fire ban for areas scattered between here and the Hunter Valley to the south, and Tweed Coast to the north.

Hot conditions in the high 30s are expected this weekend. Picture by Peter Lorimer.

Surf conditions could also present a problem, according to Port lifeguard James Turnham, who said while swells wont be big, rips and currents could cause a few headaches.

“It is looking like a very buys few days from today,” Mr Turnham said.

“There are lots of rips around at the moment, beaches have been very busy with schoolies even when patrols are finished each day.

“The swell isn’t big but surf zones at certain beaches are moderately dangerous at the moment.”

Further inland, NSW Rural Fire Services Ben Shepherd said the incoming hot weather will peak on Sunday bringing with it the real possibility of blanket fire bans.

“The whole coast is likely to see a severe to very high fire danger for Sunday,” he said.

“It does come off a little bit come Monday, albeit it is remaining hot but the winds will calm down a little bit because of that change which is due to bring a little more humidity up the coast.”

“One thing we should also stress is that people travelling up and down the coast should also keep themselves aware of any fire bans in the area, because there are still little pockets of bush that didn’t burn last season.”

Along the coast, unpleasant surf is expected Picture: Peter Lorimer

NSW Acting Director of Environmental Health, Dr Adi Vyas, said people should take extra precautions as temperatures are expected to climb into the high 30s or mid-40s across much of the state.

“We are urging people to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, to keep well hydrated, and to look after vulnerable neighbours and relatives,” Dr Vyas said.

“Hot weather puts a lot of strain on the body, causes dehydration and can make underlying health conditions worse. It also causes heat stress and heat stroke. People over 75, people with chronic medical conditions and people who live alone are particularly vulnerable.

“Signs of heat related illness include dizziness, tiredness, irritability, thirst, fainting, muscle pains or cramps, rapid pulse, shallow breathing, vomiting and confusion.”

Simple precautions can reduce the risk of heat-related illness, and include;

• avoiding the hottest part of the day by staying indoors and keeping cool by using air- conditioning, fans and drawing blinds and curtains closed

• keeping hydrated by drinking plenty of water

• checking on the welfare of vulnerable neighbours, friends and family

• planning ahead for hot days.

Visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat for more.