SA: Adelaide to swelter again today

AAP General News (Australia)
12-11-1998
SA: Adelaide to swelter again today

ADELAIDE, Dec 11 AAP - Elderly people were advised to take special care today as
temperatures in Adelaide were forecast to reach 42 degrees Celsius.

The South Australian ambulance service said extreme heat yesterday was believed to be a
factor in the deaths of four elderly people who collapsed in the street as the mercury reached
almost 40 degrees.

The service said it had also helped another 12 people affected by the heat.

Spokesman Lee Francis said it was not uncommon for ambulance officers to have to deal with
older men and women who were overdressed on very hot days.

Some old people were also loath to use fans or airconditioners, he said.

A 42-degree top today would give Adelaide its hottest December day for more than 10 years.

Power consumption across the state was also likely to surge to record levels with ETSA
Corporation expecting demand to top 2,400 megawatts.

The high temperatures could also see some fans stay away from the opening day of the third
Ashes cricket Test between England and Australia at Adelaide Oval, although the South
Australian Cricket Association said it would provide extra shade for spectators.

The weather bureau said relief from the heat was just around the corner with a cool change
tomorrow expected to drop temperatures to the mid-20s by Sunday.

AAP tjd/mk/de

KEYWORD: HEAT WARN (CARRIED EARLIER)

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