This page will be updated with details when an extreme weather event occurs in our area.
Heatwave Safety - East Gippsland
East Gippsland is heating up, and temperatures are only expected to rise.
Please take extra care of yourself, your family, neighbours, and pets over the coming days.
Stay Safe in the Heat
- Drink plenty of water
- Stay in the shade or indoors during the hottest parts of the day
- Check in on neighbours, friends, and family
- Ensure pets have fresh water and a cool place to rest
Cool Spaces in the Community
- Bairnsdale Aquatic & Recreation Centre and The Lakes Aquadome - Open 6:00am - 8:00pm weekdays and 9:00am - 5:00pm weekends.
- Orbost Outdoor Pool - Open 6:00am - 8:30am (laps), 11:00am -7:00pm (recreational)
- Libraries, recreation centres, service centres, and community halls - Check opening hours on our website
- Metung Water Park - A great place for kids to cool off and open 9:00am - 7:00pm daily.
Important Safety Reminders
- Never leave children, pets, or anyone in a parked car, even for a minute — temperatures rise quickly and can be fatal.
- Heat can cause illness ranging from mild (rash, cramps) to serious conditions such as heat stroke. People over 65, young children, and those with medical conditions are most at risk.
Feeling Unwell in the Heat?
- Nurse-on-Call: 1300 606 024
- Victorian Virtual Emergency Department: vved.org.au
- Emergency: Call 000
Stay Informed
- Emergency Dashboard: emergencydashboard.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au
This site provides real-time notifications from all relevant authorities in one place.
Check out this helpful how to use the Emergency Dashboard video.
Plan Ahead
- Keep your home cool (fans, air-conditioning, blinds)
- Consider vulnerable neighbours, friends, or family
- Test your cooling systems
- Reschedule outdoor activities or limit exposure to the sun
- Prepare for potential power outages or transport disruptions
When the Heat Hits
- Stay indoors where possible; keep air circulating
- Drink plenty of water regularly — don’t wait until you’re thirsty
- Protect yourself if outdoors: seek shade, wear lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- Reduce strenuous activity
- Check on others regularly
More information is available on the How to Prepare for an Emergency page.