Gauteng heatwave: Temperatures to reach 34°C as hot conditions persist
Gauteng faces its first official heatwave of the season, with temperatures expected to remain high until Monday. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illness.
Residents must brace for extreme weather conditions, with a heatwave expected to persist until Monday in parts of Gauteng.
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS) website, temperatures will hover around 30°C today, October 16. The heat will intensify over the weekend and into next week, with temperatures reaching between 31°C and 34°C in areas such as Pretoria.
A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature in a specific town or city reaches or exceeds 5°C above the average maximum temperature of the hottest month for that location, and persists for three or more consecutive days.
• Also read: Weekend thunderstorm warning for West Rand as summer heat hits Gauteng
Vox Weather stated on Facebook that heatwave conditions are expected to continue until tomorrow, October 17, in parts of the Eastern Cape and until Monday, October 19, in parts of Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, eastern North West and northern KZN.
Gauteng Weather also posted a notice on X stating that the first official heatwave of the season in Gauteng starts today and will run until Monday.
Staying safe during severe heat
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, and very cold drinks (which can cause stomach cramps).
• Keep cool indoors: Close curtains, blinds, and windows during the hottest hours if the air outside is warmer than inside. Open windows in the evening or at night when outdoor temperatures drop. Spend time in the coolest room available or visit public air-conditioned spaces like shopping malls or libraries.
• Limit outdoor exposure: Avoid direct sun and strenuous physical activity or manual labour, especially between 11:00 and 16:00. If you must work outside, take frequent breaks in the shade.
• Dress appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored, lightweight clothing. Protect your skin and face with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and generous applications of sunscreen
• Protect vulnerable people and pets: Never leave children, older relatives, or pets inside parked vehicles – even for a short time. Check in regularly on elderly neighbours, family members, and anyone living alone. Ensure livestock and domestic animals have constant access to shade and clean, cool water.
• Watch for heat illness: Know the signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which include dizziness, headaches, nausea, weakness, heavy sweating, or confusion. If these symptoms occur, move immediately to a cool place and seek medical help.
