Heatwave conditions in four provinces TODAY

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says a heatwave with persistently high temperatures is expected in Gauteng and surrounding provinces this week.

The heatwave is expected from Wednesday, 4 October until Friday, 6 October.

ALSO READ: Heatwave expected from TODAY in most parts of SA

HEATWAVE EXPECTED IN GAUTENG AND SURROUNDING PROVINCES

The weather service said high temperatures are expected over the southern parts of Gauteng, eastern parts of the North West, eastern parts of the Free State and the north-eastern parts of the Eastern Cape province in the next three days.

“Under these conditions, prolonged exposure to sunlight poses a health risk,” the weather service said.

ALSO READ: ‘Hot and dry’: Heatwave conditions expected in Gauteng TODAY

POSSIBLE IMPACT:

• When the temperature is extremely high, humans’ ability to cool their bodies through sweating is reduced and this can be a real threat that leads to hypothermia.
• In an extremely hot environment, the most serious health and safety concern is heat stroke. “Heat stroke can be fatal if if medical attention is not available immediately.”

HERE ARE 10 TIPS FOR SURVIVING A HEATWAVE WHILE IT IS HAPPENING 

1. Stay hydrated with plenty of water—even if you’re not thirsty. Hot weather causes you to sweat, and it’s vital to replenish the lost fluids or you’ll overheat. Have a water bottle within reach as you go about your day to avoid dehydration.
2. Never leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles—even for a second. Keep your pets indoors and make sure they have access to a cool space and plenty of water.
3. Stay inside during the hottest part of the day (10 A.M. to 4 P.M.) and limit time outside in the Sun. Avoid strenuous activity and postpone outdoor games and events. 
4. When you’re in the outdoors, make sure you stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Wear a hat or even carry an umbrella. Wear sunscreen!
5. Set your air conditioners to a lower temperature and use curtains or blinds to keep direct sunlight out. If A/C is not available, stay indoors on the lowest floor in a well-ventilated area with fans. Keep shades and blinds closed. If you don’t have air conditioners, place a tray or dish of ice in front of a fan and it’ll help to cool your room quickly. 
6. Don’t drink alcohol, sugary soda, coffee, energy drinks, or other caffeinated beverages, as they dehydrate you! That’s the last thing you need during a heat wave.
7. Eat small meals and eat more often. Eat food with nutrients (not empty carbs) and also food with higher water content (fruits and vegetables). 
8. Wear light, loose-fitting, airy, light-colored clothing and a hat made of breathable material. Tight clothing traps heat. 
9. Check on family and friends who are elder or more susceptible, especially if they may have lost A/C. If you or someone you know is experiencing heat-related issues (such as rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, headaches, muscle cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea), call your doctor.
10. If you feel overheated, cool off with wet washcloths on your wrists and neck, or take a cool sponge bath or shower. Carry a cold water bottle spray or cooling facial mist with you, and spritz cold water on your pressure points to bring your body temperature down.