The City of Ekurhuleni urges residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against extreme heat.
This follows the extreme weather patterns attributed to the El Niño phenomenon.

In a statement, the city said according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the 2026/27 summer season is expected to experience above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall across much of the country, increasing the risk of heatwaves, water scarcity and veld fires.

The city explained that El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon characterised by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which influence weather patterns globally. In Southern Africa, it is commonly associated with hotter and drier conditions, although its impacts vary.

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With temperatures expected to rise during the summer months, the city warns that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heatstroke, particularly among children, older persons and people with underlying medical conditions.

The city encourages residents to observe the following safety precautions:

Drink water regularly, even when you do not feel thirsty. Carry drinking water when travelling or spending extended periods outdoors. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, as these may contribute to dehydration. Eat light meals and include water-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet.

Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest hours of the day. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing. Use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and sunscreen when outdoors.

Seek shade or remain in well-ventilated, cooler environments whenever possible. Use a damp cloth, cooling towel or fan to help regulate body temperature.

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Residents are encouraged to remain alert to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, excessive sweating, weakness and confusion.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately move to a cooler environment and seek assistance. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires urgent medical attention.

Residents are also encouraged to check regularly on children, older persons, people with disabilities and those living with chronic medical conditions, as they may be particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

“The city calls on residents to conserve water by repairing leaking taps and pipes, avoiding unnecessary water use and adhering to the Level 1 water restrictions currently in place to mitigate the additional pressure on municipal water resources by the hotter and potentially drier conditions,” said city spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.

“Residents are further urged to refrain from burning waste or making open fires in dry, windy conditions, as these activities may increase the risk of veld fires,” said Dlamini.

The city reiterates that individual and collective responsibility is essential in reducing the impact of extreme weather conditions.

Residents are encouraged to follow official updates from the South African Weather Service and the City of Ekurhuleni for weather advisories and public safety information.