On Tuesday, January 10, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a heatwave and discomfort advisory for sections of the Northern and Western Capes. Over the next few days, high temperatures are anticipated in the impacted areas.
ISSUED HEATWAVE/DISCOMFORT ADVISORY
The Heatwave/Discomfort Advisory is in effect from Tuesday at 13:00 through Friday, January 13, at 20:00.
According to the weather service, “heatwave conditions are anticipated to last through Friday in Central and Little Karoo regions (Western Cape) and Khai-Ma (Northern Cape) due to persistently high temperatures for at least three consecutive days.”
With temperatures in the high 30s, extremely uncomfortable conditions are anticipated in the impacted areas. Additionally, a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius is forecast.
As was previously said, during heatwave conditions, the weather service typically recommends residents stay out of the sun for as long as possible and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
The following are some possible effects of the heatwave:
Hyperthermia. In extremely hot weather, perspiration is less effective as a method of body cooling.
The most urgent health and safety issue in an extremely hot climate is heat stroke. If medical help is not sought out right away, the weather service issued a dire warning.
If they happen during a drought, heatwaves can fuel veld fires.
»Northern and Western Cape to experience Heatwave/Discomfort«