The South African Weather Service has issued a weather warning as a heatwave with persistently high temperatures is set to affect parts of the country.
The heatwave will impact the central and south-eastern areas of the North West Province, as well as the northern parts of the Free State, until Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
More areas will be affected until at least Friday, December 6, 2024, including the north-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal, north-eastern North West, Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga.
These extreme conditions are expected to have serious consequences for public health, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures increases the risk of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
Experts advise that individuals, particularly the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, take proactive measures to stay cool.
It is crucial to understand the symptoms of heatstroke, which include high body temperature, rapid pulse, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. If left untreated, heatstroke can be fatal. Medical professionals recommend getting medical attention immediately if any of these symptoms occur.
To mitigate the effects of extreme heat, it is important to:
● Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even if not thirsty.
● Wear light, breathable clothing and use sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
● Limit physical activity to cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening.
● Keep living spaces cool by closing curtains or blinds and using fans.
● Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
IOL News