Brace yourself for the weather today…

SA weather services are reporting a spike in temperature for the Zululand area today– and it’s going to be a stinker.

Temperature predications vary between around 38 degrees and 41 degrees, but either way it’s a good idea for Zululanders to pack on the sunblock, put hats on your children, put extra water and shade out for pets,  and stay close to an air-conditioner.

A heatwave can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable people are:

• older people, especially those over 75
• babies and young children
• people with a serious chronic condition, especially heart or breathing problems
• people with mobility problems – for example, people with Parkinson’s disease or who have had a stroke
• people on certain medications, including those that affect sweating and temperature control
• people who are physically active – for example, labourers or those doing sports

Tips for coping in hot weather

• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. You can open the windows for ventilation when it is cooler.
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat.
• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn’t possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and diluted fruit juice. Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine (tea, coffee and cola) or drinks high in sugar.
• Listen to alerts on the radio, TV and social media about keeping cool.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
• Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors.
• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

The signs of heat exhaustion include:

• Headache
• dizziness and confusion
• loss of appetite and feeling sick
• excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
• cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
• fast breathing or pulse
• temperature of 38C or above
• intense thirst

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