Particle levels in Wagga increased into the hazardous zone on Wednesday afternoon. 

“Unfortunately, it’s just a double whammy for Wagga at the moment,” said Tracey Oakman, director of public health at the Murrumbidgee Local Health District.

“We’ve got the heat, and the PM10 levels which means the air quality is quite low at the moment.”

When the particle meter reaches that end of the scale, it represents the highest danger for people with pre-existing conditions. 

Previous dry seasons have increased the longevity and intensity of the current dust storm.

Although Wagga Base Hospital has not registered a jump in its usual emergency intake for this time of the year, the present conditions have raised alarms for society’s more vulnerable people.

“Of course, the emergency department is always a little busier at this time of the year, but considering the heatwave we are in, there has no more than the usual [traffic],” said Ms Oakman.

“That’s actually really good to see because it means people are being careful and taking precautions in the heat.”

Wagga’s air quality was expected to improve by late Thursday, but health experts are warning residents to remain vigilant even to next week.

“These kinds of conditions combined can trigger breathing issues, respiratory episodes and can create problems for people with cardiovascular disease,” said Ms Oakman.

“For people with heart and blood pressure conditions, the heat means the heart is having to work so hard to pump blood through the body and that can trigger heart stress.”

With the dust and wind forecast to stay, the biggest concern is for people with asthma and other breathing difficulties.

“This kind of weather could easily trigger an asthmatic episode, so for people who are prone [to breathing problems], it’s just a matter of staying inside with the doors and windows shut when the dust is about,” said Ms Oakman.

“Have your puffer with you at all times, and avoid alcohol or sugary drinks.

“It’s generally better for everyone right now to stay out of the heat, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities at the time.”’

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