Drink enough water during heatwave, residents urged
The high rise in temperatures poses a risk to residents to develop heat stroke, dehydration and heat exhaustion. Hammanskraal reached a maximum of 36°C.
The Tshwane Emergency Services has called on its residents to stay hydrated by drinking loads of water during this scorching heat.
The South African Weather Services (SAWS) extended a heatwave warning on Tuesday.
EMS spokesperson Charles Mabaso said his department noticed the rise in temperatures in various parts of the city, such as Hammanskraal which is 36°C.
“It is against this background that we call on residents to be aware of adverse effects that may be caused by extended exposure to extreme hot weather conditions. The effects may include dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” said Mabaso.
He further urged residents to heed the warning.
“It is forecast that the heatwave will persist until Sunday, October 8.”
Furthermore, Mabaso also encouraged residents to monitor warnings and alerts issued by the SAWS and other government agencies.
Residents can take the following precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the wave:
– Stay hydrated by drinking copious amounts of water.
– Limit outdoor activities (especially during the hottest time of the day).
– Wear loose clothing and avoid wearing dark-coloured clothing where possible.
– Remain in the shade where possible.
– Keep an eye on vulnerable individuals.
– Ensure children or animals are not left in parked vehicles.
– Avoid strenuous physical activity if possible.
On Tuesday, SAWS spokesperson Lehlohonolo Thobajana said these extremely hot and dry conditions will continue to prevail over a large part of the Highveld through to the weekend.
“When we have a condition where we have an average temperature of the hottest month lasting over three days consecutively with hotter than an average temperature, that’s when we have a heatwave.
“We are going to have a heatwave over the central and southern parts. It will start heating from the Free State, southern parts of Gauteng as well as the eastern parts of North West,” Thobajana added.
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