Extreme heat conditions continue in the Northern and Western Cape, according to an advisory from the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
Areas mostly affected are in the Richtersveld, Kamiesberg in the Northern Cape, as well as Matzikamma and Saldanha Bay in the Western Cape.
Temperatures are expected to exceed 40 degrees celsius.
The SAWS said impacts of the heatwave, are hyperthermia and heatstrokes, due to the inability of the body to cool itself.
Oregon Health guidelines for people during a heatwave, are to dress lightly, stay cool, eat lightly, stay hydrated, use sunscreen, stay hydrated, cool down by taking cool showers and baths.
According to a study by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) on heatwaves and mortality in Africa, preparedness and resilience are key, as South African temperatures are expected to become warmer than the projected global average temperature.
Some parts of the country are expected to dry up while others become wetter, and there aren’t any certainties.
Dr Caradee Wright, Chief Specialist Scientist at the SAMRC’s Environment and Health Research Unit (EHRU), said “resilience to heatwaves as a result of climate change requires more than personal action, in light of climate threats and climate-related disaster risks facing South Africa, an all-encompassing approach, including education campaigns, climate-proofed housing, access to basic services and financial considerations, will help support resilient coping among South Africans.”
Picture: SA Medical Research Council