South African Weather Service warns of very hot and uncomfortable conditions expected to affect parts of the Western Cape, with temperatures reaching the mid to high 30s.
Image: File
Heatwave grips western South Africa as Tuesday temperatures soar
South Africans can expect very hot conditions in the west and mild weather elsewhere on Tuesday, according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), which has issued a heatwave advisory for parts of the Western Cape and Northern Cape from Tuesday until March 13.
Temperatures in several major cities will remain moderate, but the Western Cape will see a sharp spike in heat, with Cape Town forecast to reach 39°C, making it one of the hottest urban centres in the country on Tuesday.
Pretoria: 27°C / 12°C
Johannesburg: 24°C / 10°C
Cape Town: 39°C / 23°C
Durban: 26°C / 18°C
Bloemfontein: 26°C / 12°C
Polokwane: 26°C / 14°C
Upington: 33°C / 22°C
Port Elizabeth: 27°C / 17°C
East London: 25°C / 17°C
SAWS says fine and warm to hot conditions will dominate the western interior, while eastern parts of the country will remain partly cloudy and cooler.
The heat is expected to intensify across parts of the Western Cape and Northern Cape, with some areas forecast to see temperatures above 36°C and potentially reaching the low 40s later in the week.
Meanwhile, the eastern regions of the country may experience isolated showers and thundershowers, although temperatures there will remain relatively mild compared with the west.
SAWS has urged residents in heat-affected areas to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat, and check on vulnerable people such as the elderly and young children.
Authorities have warned that the prolonged heat could increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Residents are advised to:
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