Weather service warns of heatwave

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of a heatwave over the central and south-eastern parts of the North West and the northern parts of the Free State next week until Wednesday.

These conditions will also be experienced in the north-western parts of Kwazulu-Natal, north-eastern parts of the North West, Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga until at least Friday.

There is a specific criterion that the South African Weather Service applies to each town or city in order to determine whether heat wave conditions are met or not.

According to the weather service, if the maximum temperature at a particular town is expected to meet or exceed 5 degrees C above the average maximum temperature of “the hottest month” for that particular place, as well as persisting in that mode for three days or more, then a heat wave may be declared.

The following safety tips can be used during a heatwave:

• Stay indoors in a well-ventilated or air-conditioned room.
• If working outside, wear protective clothing and take breaks at regular intervals.
• Avoid playing strenuous sports or engaging in excessive manual labour, as one runs the risk of heat exhaustion or sunstroke.
• Dress in cool, lightweight clothes which are not constricting.
• The wearing of hats (preferably with a wide brim) as well as the generous application of sunblock should be encouraged if one is outdoors for any length of time.
• Remain adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids.
• Outside playtime for children should ideally be restricted or prohibited between 10:00 and 16:00.
• The aged as well as infants are particularly vulnerable to dehydration and/or heatstroke and should be afforded extra care and attention during prolonged spells of hot weather. –SAnews.gov.za