A new team is working to predict the danger zones of Australia's deadliest heatwaves
By Helen Frost
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In response to the danger posed by extreme heat, the Federal Government has formed the Emergency Management Australia-led National Heatwave Framework Working Group, with input from a range of departments.
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According to Mr [John] Nairn [the state manager of the Bureau of Meteorology in South Australia], the evidence that extreme heatwaves were increasing — and appearing very early and late in the season — was reflected in Bureau of Meteorology's (BOM) data.
"The BOM is leading a project that will build a heatwave predictability map for Australia," he said.
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State borders determine heatwave responses
Each state and territory has its own heatwave response approach, with different triggers and thresholds for their local communities.
They also have different government agencies responsible for warning systems and plans.
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One of the main issues in addressing heat problems in Australia is the inconsistent way death tolls have been calculated and reported.
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