The Western Cape will experience some scorching on Tuesday. The warning has been implemented since Monday and is expected to last throughout the day.
In recent days, the Western Cape has endured some hot days and beach days in the midst of sunny weather over the holidays. This week, the province will see the temperatures move up a bit more.
This past Monday, the South African Weather Service noted that the Western Cape will endure “very hot temperatures [that] will result in uncomfortable conditions”.
Impacts of hot temperatures
In their warning, the South African Weather Service relayed that very hot weather conditions can reduce the body’s ability to cool down. As a result, humans can end up with hyperthermia. During this time, the body becomes overly hot which leads to regulating systems not working effectively.
Extreme discomfort advisory: Western Cape: 9 – 10 January 2023 until 20:00 pic.twitter.com/9Y9MMP2Y3O
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) January 9, 2023
Thus far, an instance such as this only occurs when temperatures are as high as 40 degrees. It is therefore advised to see a medical professional when the body reaches this state.
Weather temperatures in the Western Cape
Areas that are most affected by this heat wave include:
- Prince Albert – 39 degrees
- Clan William – 34 degrees
- Vredendaal – 33 degrees
- Oudshoorn – 37 degrees
- Beaufort West – 38 degrees
- Ladismith – 36 degrees
- Paarl – 31 degrees
As the day progresses, the weather is expected to reach a high of at least 40 degrees in certain parts of the Western Cape.
Western Cape Today 's Weather overview: 10.1.2023 pic.twitter.com/br2RnpeKsa
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) January 10, 2023
Now, in extremely hot weather conditions such as this, the most serious health issue that can arise is heat stroke. During this time, medical attention should immediately be sought. If not, the impacts can be deadly.
Some symptoms of hyperthermia include nausea, confusion, vomiting, and rapid breathing. While seeking a medical professional is vital, treating your condition temporarily is also advised. One way hyperthermia can be mitigated is through air conditioning and using ice packs.
While the Western Cape will experience some of the highest temperatures, other provinces in the country are also enduring some hot days with temperatures ranging from 23 to 36 degrees.
Take care on this sunny day!
