WARNING: Heatwave predicted this week

The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) says it has noted with concern the warning message from the South African Weather Service that most parts of Gauteng, including Joburg, will see persistent high temperatures from Tuesday going into the week.

Temperatures are expected to be persistently high to over 36°C.

“These temperatures are expected to last for the whole week, that is why we have an alert of heatwave,” said EMS media liaison officer, Robert Mulaudzi.

“We will remain on high alert throughout the week to make sure that we can be able to respond to any emergency which might occur as quickly as possible.  This current heat wave means that most of the citizens of the City of Johannesburg will be exposed to extremely hot temperatures, exposure to this kind of heat can easily lead to heat cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke.”

Mulaudzi provided the following heatwave safety tips:

• Keep indoors if possible

• Keep cool by drinking lots of fluids and wearing light clothing

• Protect young children by wearing hats and sunscreen

• Stay away from direct sunlight especially between 11am and 3pm

•Cool yourself by visiting your local municipal swimming pools

• Avoid direct sunlight by wearing a hat and sunscreen

• Do not leave children or pets in parked locked vehicles

• Stay in or under the shade

• Take frequent breaks if you are working outdoors

• Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated or carbonated drinks.

“Stay safe around water during this heatwave. For any life-threatening emergencies call 10177 on a Telkom landline or 112 on your cell phone, or 011 375 5911,” Mulaudzi concluded.