Intense heatwave to hit WA mining hubs

An extreme heatwave warning has been issued for two major mining hubs in Western Australia, with scorching temperatures forecast to persist until Friday.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) says the Pilbara, Gascoyne and the state’s north interior will experience extreme heatwave conditions until January 22, with maximum temperatures ranging from the high 30s to the mid-40s. In parts of the Gascoyne and Pilbara, temperatures are expected to climb into the high 40s, while overnight minimums are forecast to sit between the low 20s and low 30s.

According to national meteorological service provider Weatherzone, the Pilbara and some surrounding areas could even see a 50-degree day. The last time Australia recorded such extreme heat was nearly four years ago, on January 13, 2022, when the coastal WA town of Onslow reached 50.7°C at 2.26 pm, equalling the nation’s all-time temperature record.

BoM has also issued a severe heatwave warning for the Kimberley, as well as central and lower west parts of Western Australia, although severe to extreme heatwave conditions are expected to ease later this week.

As temperatures soar, WorkSafe WA’s previously issued advisory offers mine operators guidance on managing extreme heat, stressing that heat stress can be prevented through a combination of planning, training and practical controls. 

The safety regulator says this includes comprehensive risk assessments and regularly reviewed heat-management plans, training workers to recognise and prevent heat-related illness, and encouraging frequent hydration with ready access to cool drinking water.

WorkSafe WA also highlights engineering controls such as shade and shelter, reflective insulation, ventilation and air conditioning, and isolating or shielding hot processes. 

Administrative measures – including scheduling work during cooler parts of the day, rotating tasks to limit exposure, increasing rest breaks, and providing additional protections for remote or lone workers – are also recommended, supported by mechanical aids to reduce physical exertion and personal protective equipment such as loose-fitting clothing and cooling vests.