Showers and scattered thunderstorms predicted for the Lowveld

SAWS sent out a warning of severe and scattered thunderstorms, which may lead to strong damaging winds, large amounts of small hail and heavy downpours, expected in Mpumalanga this afternoon and tomorrow, Tuesday and Wednesday November 28 and 29.

The warning is applicable to the western and southern parts of KZN, Gauteng, the eastern parts of both the North West and the Free State and the highveld of Mpumalanga.

Also read: IN PHOTOS: Storm wreaks havoc in Mbombela and surrounds

According to the SAWS, Mpumalanga will be cloudy in the east with morning drizzle and fog patches along the escarpment, otherwise partly cloudy and warm to hot, but very hot in the Lowveld, with isolated showers and thundershowers.

Stay safe during thunderstorms:

If you are outdoors when you see or hear a thunderstorm coming, seek safe shelter immediately!

If your hair stands on end, leave the area as fast as possible, as lightning will almost certainly strike that spot shortly.

When you see the lightning flash, count the seconds until you hear the thunder clap. At 30 seconds, suspend all outdoor activities and seek safe shelter, as lightning strikes are close. If you count 15 seconds or less, a lightning strike could occur where you are.

Unsafe areas during lightning or electric storms are tall structures such as trees, telephone poles and power lines. Do not seek shelter under trees, on hilltops, in isolated sheds or buildings, or on open water.

Avoid being near or touching metal objects such as fences, golf carts, bicycles and motorcycles, telephone or power lines and steel structures such as pylons and windmills.

If indoors during a storm, stay well clear of windows and do not hold any metal object, use any electrical appliance, use the telephone or take a bath or shower.

If you are travelling, stay inside the vehicle. Do not swim or play sport during a thunderstorm. Golfers and fishermen are especially at high risk.

Extremely high fire danger conditions are also expected over the Lowveld of Mpumalanga, as the heatwave condition continues, according to the SAWS.

 

Also read: IN PHOTOS: Storm damage to Mbombela and surrounding areas

How to beat the heat?

Stay indoors in a well-ventilated or air conditioned room.

If working outside, wear protective clothing and take breaks at regular intervals.

Avoid playing strenuous sports or engaging in excessive manual labour, as one runs the risk of heat exhaustion or sunstroke. Dress in cool, lightweight clothes that are not constricting.

The wearing of hats (preferably with a wide brim) as well as the generous application of sunblock should be encouraged if one is outdoors for any length of time.

Remain adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids (not alcohol).

Outside playtime for children should ideally be restricted or prohibited between 10:00 and 16:00.

The aged and infants are particularly vulnerable to dehydration and/or heatstroke and should be afforded extra care and attention during prolonged spells of hot weather.