The worst is yet to come for Queensland with heatwave conditions expected to peak about mid-afternoon.
Catastrophic weather conditions across the state are fuelling more more than 85 bushfires across the state including one that is threatening people's lives.
Temperatures are soaring across the state with peaks more than 40C forecast for central and northern Queensland.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned records have fallen and more are expected to fall as the state swelters through the heatwave and bushfire crisis.
North Queensland has already hit maximum temperatures with Proserpine the hottest in the state so far at 42.9 degrees.
Jacinita Pennisi said the temperature was over 40 degrees when she was driving to work at the Proserpine swimming pool.
"We have a new water park that's just opening and it's had a pretty big workout in the last few days," she said.
But the North Queensland born and bred local said it was not as hot as Monday - yet.
Temperatures in nearby Bowen have reached 41.1 and, further south, Rockhampton has hit 41.7.
However the bureau has warned that temperatures are expected to keep climbing with most areas not expected to peak until around 3pm.
Fierce westerly winds are sweeping inland Queensland bringing a cloud of dust and expected to impact the fire zone this afternoon creating "extremely dangerous" conditions.
The heatwave has prompted a warning from Queensland Health for people to stay hydrated as paramedics treat record numbers of patients affected by heat.
Dr Sonya Bennett said the combination of a record heatwave with smoke and dust was extremely dangerous.
"Heat can be a severe health risk, particularly the young, the elderly and people with chronic health conditions," she said.
People have been urged to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and limit outdoor or strenuous activities and to stay in a cool area if possible.
Heat stress symptoms include a rash, sweating, nausea vomiting, hot dry skin and fainting.
Anyone suffering any of those symptoms should seek medical attention.
