Heat wave alert: Extreme temperatures expected in Western and Northern Cape

Heat wave conditions are expected over parts of the Western Cape and Northern Cape from Monday until Friday with temperatures set to reach 36°C to 42°C.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) said the western and south-western parts of the country can expect very hot to extremely hot temperatures to return during the coming week following a brief period of cooler weather. 

Heat wave conditions are characterised by prolonged periods - at least three consecutive days or more - of temperatures exceeding the average of the hottest month by 5°C or more.

“The heat wave conditions are anticipated due to the presence of a strong, slow-moving high-pressure system in the upper levels of the atmosphere. The air in upper-air high-pressure systems sinks and warms as it descends, leading to higher temperatures at the surface. The system will be accompanied by offshore wind flow along the western coastline of South Africa,” the Saws said.

“Very hot to extremely hot temperatures (36°C to 42°C) are expected across the coastal areas and adjacent interior of the Northern Cape and the western parts of the Western Cape, from Monday. 

“The highest temperatures will occur on Tuesday and Wednesday over the western parts of both the Northern Cape and Western Cape.” 

The City’s disaster risk management spokesperson, Sonica Lategan, urged the public to be mindful of the forecast and the potential heat-related impacts, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly and infirm, and pets.

“Where possible, stay out of direct sunlight, drink plenty of water, use sunscreen and wear a hat where possible, if you must be out and about. Also, wear light clothing and seek out shaded areas or areas with air-conditioning.”

Lategan said the higher temperatures also increase the risk of veldfires. 

Report any sign of a fire or any other emergency to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.

Cape Times