A total fire ban is in place across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven with gusty winds expected to coincide with temperatures approaching mid to high 30s on Friday.
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Temperatures in Wollongong had reached 28 degrees just after 8am on Friday with a top of 35 degrees forecast and winds up to 40km/h.
Albion Park is expected to top 34 degrees, with Nowra, temperatures forecast to hit 36 degrees. Some parts of Sydney may reach 38 degrees.
The Bureau of Meteorology said there is a slight chance of thunderstorm Friday evening.
After Friday’s searing heat, temperatures are expected to drop to the mid to high 20s for the weekend.
A total fire ban is in place across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven and applies to Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven, Wingecarribee and Wollondilly council areas.
Greater Sydney and Newcastle also have total fire bans.
No fires may be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended during a Total Fire Ban.
Gas and electric barbeques may be used provided certain conditions are met.
NSW Ambulance Wollongong Inspector Matt Sterling said as the weather warmed up, it was important that people remained alert to the symptoms associated with heat exhaustion in themselves or others, especially young children and the elderly.
“Heat can kill so it’s vital that people take precautions and keep hydrated,” he said.
Paramedics were called to 279 cases of dehydration, and 11 cases of heat exposure, in the Illawarra between December 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
“This summer we’re urging people to be alert to the signs of heat related illness which include fatigue, weakness, headache, nausea and vomiting,” Inspector Sterling said.
Firefighters are continuing to battle an out-of-control bushfire burning west of Canberra which grew to 54 hectares overnight Thursday.