Cape Town – The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of potential heatwaves, severe storms, and damaging winds in October and November.
The highveld region, including Gauteng and northern Free State, is especially prone to these severe weather events.
SAWS urged the public to stay hydrated and care for vulnerable groups during heatwaves, which could lead to fatalities if not managed.
“Moreover, given the expectation of a relatively hot summer over much of the country, communities should also be mindful of the likelihood of sustained spells of hot, dry weather, as well as the possibility of heatwaves. During such events, the aged, infirm, as well as infants and toddlers are particularly susceptible to dehydration.
“The SAWS therefore strongly recommends that everyone take care to stay hydrated and to support and assist the elderly and small children at such times. It is an unfortunate but well-documented reality that heatwaves often lead to numerous fatalities, if no mitigative steps are taken,” SAWS Senior Manager: Disaster Risk Management, Rudzani Malala, said.
SAWS also highlighted South Africa’s unique weather patterns, influenced by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, causing extreme cold in some areas and heat in others.
“The uniqueness of South Africa is such that at one end of the country, the public may experience extreme cold temperatures, whilst at the other end, communities may experience hot temperatures,” Malala said.
Recently, snow and cold conditions hit parts of the country in late September, accurately predicted by SAWS.
Snowfall, though rare outside winter, has occurred as late as October and even on New Year’s Day in the past.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
