The South African Weather Service has issued a heat wave advisory for several regions in the Western Cape, including parts of the West Coast, the City of Cape Town and the Cape Winelands.
Temperatures are expected to reach the high 30s and low 40s degrees Celsius across affected areas, with Cape Town recording a maximum of 37°C today. The coastal town of Hermanus is forecast to experience similar sweltering conditions with temperatures reaching 36°C, whilst inland areas are also feeling the heat.
And on the West Coast, the mercury rises to 30°C in the coastal towns of Langebaan and Saldanha.
Paarl in the Winelands is expecting a high of 39°C, whilst Worcester will see temperatures climb to 42°C. George on the Garden Route is forecast to reach 29°C, whilst Beaufort West in the Karoo is expected to hit 35°C.
The advisory comes as the region experiences significantly above-average temperatures for this time of year. According to the South African Weather Service, a heat wave is defined as maximum temperatures expected to be five degrees Celsius above the average maximum for the hottest month, persisting for three or more days.
The Cape Town forecast shows temperatures will drop significantly from Tuesday, with a high of 27°C expected, followed by 26°C on Wednesday and Thursday. Weekend conditions will bring possible showers and thundershowers with temperatures in the mid-20s.
Other provinces
The Northern Cape is experiencing warm and windy conditions, with Kimberley forecast to reach 30°C on Monday.
In the Eastern Cape, Port Elizabeth is expecting clear skies with strong winds and a maximum temperature of 27°C today and Tuesday, before conditions become partly cloudy later in the week. Weekend weather may bring rain showers and possible thundershowers, with temperatures cooling from Monday.
Free State residents can expect warm and sunny conditions, with Bloemfontein recording a high of 28°C today. Rain and cooler weather can be expected from the weekend
Gauteng is experiencing cloudy weather with sunny intervals with Johannesburg reaching only 23°C today, whilst KwaZulu-Natal is seeing varied conditions. Durban is forecast to reach 25°C today with warm sunny weather predicted for the rest of the week, and thunderstorms over the weekend.
Heat wave safety tips
With soaring temperatures posing potential health risks, the South African Weather Service urges caution, particularly for those planning to spend time outdoors. Dehydration and heat-related illnesses are significant concerns during extreme weather.
Stay hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body cool.
Dress appropriately: Opt for light, breathable clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Pet care: Keep pets cool and hydrated, and minimise strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
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