Think bushfires are Australia’s deadliest disaster? Think again. Heatwaves quietly claim more lives than any other extreme weather.

In this Squiz Kids Science Short, we break down what a heatwave actually is, how extreme heat can overwhelm our bodies, why some communities are hit harder than others, and what we can all do to stay cool and safe. Science has never been this sizzling!

Every Saturday, Squiz Kids Science Shorts answers the big, curly questions you’ve been wondering about — breaking down weird facts, everyday mysteries, and the latest science stories in a fun and kid-friendly way. Quick, curious, and packed with answers you didn’t even know you needed.