POLOKWANE – The South African Weather Service currently has a D3D5 warning for “extreme heat” in Polokwane from Friday through to Monday.

This after the weather service issued another heatwave warning for the province starting today and ending on Monday. “A heatwave with persistently high temperatures is expected over the Lowveld of Limpopo from Friday and the entire province from Saturday continuing to Monday,” a statement read.

Read more: Temperatures in Polokwane to reach a whopping 39 degrees this week

The weather service says extremely hot and humid weather will result in uncomfortable conditions over Limpopo from Friday continuing till Monday.

According to the forecast, Friday will peak at 37 degrees, Saturday at 39 degrees, Sunday at 38 degrees and Monday, 39 degrees.

While partly cloudy conditions are expected over the weekend, Monday will be sunny. Thunderstorms have been forecast for Thursday and a 30% chance of rain is expected from Friday through to Monday.

Another #heatwave expected over the north-eastern provinces (Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, North West) of South Africa starting in some areas already from tomorrow (Thursday) and will last until at least Monday (28 October 2019). Check the advisory below. pic.twitter.com/pIdNLvnnuW

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) October 23, 2019

ER24 offers the following tips for coping in hot weather:

• Stay well hydrated by drinking a lot of water. (Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.)
• Keep a close eye on babies, the elderly and children. Ensure they stay well hydrated as well.
• Remember to ensure pets have a cool place to relax and cool clean water to drink as well.
• Try to stay out of direct sunlight.
• Wear the appropriate clothing and ensure you use sunscreen. 9Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.)
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat.
• Limit participation in outdoor activities. If you plan on participating in outdoor activities, ensure you rest and keep hydrated.
• If you are going to spend time in a pool, ensure your safety and that of children around you. Ensure that they are supervised while around and in the pool.
• Do not leave children and pets in a vehicle even with a window open. (Heat test within a parked car)
• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside.

Severe heatstroke or exhaustion signs or symptoms include the following:

• Severe headache
• Weakness or disorientation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Severe thirst

raeesak@ngmroup.co.za