Ways to survive the Mbombela heat wave
Extremely hot conditions have been predicted to hit some parts of the country until Saturday.
Soaring temperatures are to be expected for the first time this spring.
Mbombela is one of the areas with a heat wave warning issued by the South African Weather Services.
Extremely hot conditions have been predicted to hit some parts of the country until Saturday.
A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, often accompanied by high humidity.
Prolonged periods of high temperatures and high humidity can be very dangerous for your health.
In extreme heat and humidity, evaporation is slowed and your body has to work very hard to maintain a normal temperature.
Mpumalanga News spoke to local doctor, Dr Busi Mabaso for advice on how to cope with the scorching heat and her main concern was dehydration.
1. Drink enough water
Drinking water will help keep you hydrated but be careful not to overdo it.
According to the good doctor, too much water dilutes the sodium in your body which could drop the blood pressure.
2. Avoid overeating
Mabaso advises that eating lighter meals than usual during a heat wave is power.
According to her, the body has to work harder to digest heavier foods, like meat and cheese, generating more body heat.
3. Avoid direct exposure to the sun
Cover up and always use an SPF of 15 or higher to help block dangerous sun rays. Sun glasses are a must in order to protect your eyes.
4. If you are going to exercise, do it at the right time.
Spending a long time under the sun can cause fainting, so, if you’re going to walk or go for a jog, do it in the early morning or early evening, when the sun is not too fierce.
Here are your maximum temperatures for the rest of the week:
Tuesday: 30
Wednesday: 36
Thursday: 38
Friday: 33
Saturday: 30
