With 14 successive nights in the Perth metropolitan area witnessing the minimum overnight temperature of more than 20 degrees, the state has set a new record for the greatest number of consecutive warm nights this summer; breaking the earlier record set in 1990.

In addition, the state has also had 21 consecutive days of temperatures above 30 degrees; thereby making the summer this year the second hottest summer on record, with easterly winds as well as high humidity.

During the coming week also, the temperature is likely to remain above 35 degrees.

Cautioning the people to be aware of heat stress, Health Department’s Andy Robertson has advised the people to remain watchful of their health, especially in the wake of the prolonged period of hot weather.

Noting that “heat exhaustion is when people have a higher than normal body temperature, they are feeling generally unwell, they are nauseous, feeling faint, Robertson said: “Often that can be dealt with fairly easily by resting and getting lots of fluids.”

Further elaborating that the effects of heat-related illnesses could vary from mild conditions like a rash or cramps, to more serious conditions like heat stroke, the Health Department has urged Perth residents to stay indoors if possible; drink plenty of water; cut down physical activity; and wear lightweight clothing.