AFTER experiencing a scorching heatwave across Zululand last week, heavy rainfall offered a cool reprieve, happily welcomed by local residents.
But the SA Weather Service said it was only a short break before high temperatures and humidity levels reclaim dominance in this region.
‘While we expected rainfall to temporarily lower heat levels until Wednesday, the high climate should return and persist until April when the season starts to change,’ said SA Weather Service forecastor Wisani Maluleke.
‘The highest temperatures recorded were in Hluhluwe and Sodwana at 36 degrees, without counting humidity.
‘Humidity levels in northern KZN reached 70%, causing high discomfort.’
Athletes in the Mondi 21km run in Richards Bay on Saturday battled, saying it ‘was tough to breathe’ in the damp air, while many long-time residents have said the past week has been the hottest they can remember in decades.
Some schools have had to postpone outside activities due to the extreme climate conditions.
Veldenvlei Primary School said it had been ‘negatively affected’ by the weather with a number of sporting events cancelled since the beginning of January.
On the Zululand Observer Facebook page on Monday morning, readers said they recorded temperatures rising above 40 degrees during the weekend and many ‘waited in anticipation’ for the forecast rainfall.
