The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for extreme temperatures to prevail this week, with the possibility of storms bringing some relief by the weekend.

The BOM is forecasting maximum temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s over coming days, increasing to the mid 30s on Friday and Saturday in tandem with sticky tropical humidity.

Minimum temperatures overnight are expected to range between the low to mid 20s.

The BOM is advising that severe heatwaves can be dangerous for many people, especially older people, babies, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions and people who are unwell.

It suggests that people should seek refuge in a place to keep cool, such as their home, a library, community centre or shopping centre if they are feeling distressed.

“Close your windows and draw blinds, curtains or awnings early in the day to keep the heat out of your home,” they said.

“If available, use fans or air-conditioners to keep cool.”