cold front

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Johannesburg weather: Here’s how to stay warm this weekend

Need to stay warm? We have a few suggestions to keep that cold front at bay.

cold front

Photo: Adobe Stock

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed that we should prepare for a stretch of cold weather over the weekend. This will result in significant temperature drops across large parts of the country on Friday, 30 April 2021.

It’s easier to change your body temperature than the room temperature, so warm yourself first. Go the eco-friendly way by putting on an extra layer of clothing before turning the heater up.

Johannesburg weather update

Most parts of Gauteng – along with Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the North West – are set to experience heavy downpours on Friday afternoon. 

According to Gauteng Weather, “Fresh storms rolling into Gauteng from the South West. Storms a lot smaller compared to big overnight storm”. This warning follows after the service issued the following alert on Thursday:

“Stubborn cold snap in Gauteng beginning early Friday until at least Monday. Overnight temperatures likely to drop to fresh 2021 lows”.

Here’s how to stay warm despite the Johannesburg weather

You could also do raise your body temperature by wearing a hat. The idea of losing 80% of your body heat through your head has been disproved, but you still need to cover any surface exposed to cold air.

Remember to bring your pets in or make sure they have a warm spot to cosy up tonight. If you need some inspiration for staying warm, you’ve come to the right place.

Photo: Adobe Stock

Cosy up during the cold front

Get the blankets and throws. Get the jackets and scarves or whichever item of clothing you associate with snuggles on a cold winter’s evening. The trick here is to either layer your clothing, or just go all out and make a blanket nest.

Try to avoid going out, if you can. It shouldn’t be all that difficult considering we’ve been forced to stay indoors as much as possible due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Photo: Adobe Stock

Hearty food

Prepare a proper winter’s feast this week to keep the cold at bay. Warm dishes are a sure-fire way to stay warm and there is no better time than the present to use the cold front to cook up a storm.

Cape Malay Curry

Turmeric, cumin, coriander all join forces in this chicken dish that puts the fire in your belly.

winter warmer cold front malay curry
Photo: Unsplash

Potjie 

Get your potjie ready before it gets too cold. If you need inspiration, here’s a yummy lamb neck fillet

potjie cold front keep warm
Photo: Pixabay

Bake all day, if you are in a position to do so. Not just because winter-warmer dishes are essential, but because using your oven will heat up the whole house. As you bonus, your house will be filled with pleasant aromas.

Pea Soup

Pea Soup is so flavoursome, it will keep the cold away. Pair it with duck egg and ham for the ultimate winter-warmer.

Photo: Adobe Stock

Gluhwein

One sip of this hearty blend will have you sinking back into the comfort of your seat, nourishing your whole body with warmth.

Photo: Adobe Stock

If you do try the gluhwein, remember to take it slow with the alcohol. By all means, indulge a little, but too much of a good thing is not always a good idea. Rather stick to warm drinks such as coffee and tea.

There’s nothing quite like a hot drink on a cold night. Why not cosy up with a steaming hot chocolate? Remember to top with cream or marshmallows for extra luxury. But don’t forget to stay hydrated.

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We tend to avoid drinking water when it’s cold outside but water helps protect our immune system from dehydration, which can weaken your immune system. Why not infuse your water with lemon, mint, garlic and ginger?

Movie night

Close the doors and windows and get the family to huddle together in the living room. Bonus if you have a fireplace or gas heater. Turn the lounge floor into a haven of blankets and pillows.

blanket fort cold front
Photo: Reddit

Better yet, build a blanket fort! You don’t even need kids in the family for this, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with a grown-up blankfort. Simply gather all the blankets, arrange the chairs strategically and start draping.

Wear a hat and socks

I bet your mother used to say that you lose most of of your body heat through head and toes. While that’s not scientifically accurate, it is true that more skin is exposed, the colder you’ll be.

cold front
Photo: Adobe Stock

Make sure everything from the top of your head to your tippy toes are covered, and that means a cozy beanie or scarf and a fuzzy socks. Just do it, thank us later.

Bonus tips for beating the Johannesburg weather

If that’s still not enough to warm you up, you could also use a pool noodle to block cold drafts. Simply cut it in half lengthwise, wrap the pool noodle in fabric and slide it under your door. Do it now, thank us later.

And while you’re redecorating, invest in heavier curtains. Replace thin curtain will wool or fleece alternatives in winter. And if all else fails, stay in bed.

Lastly, remember that while you’re bearing the brunt of winter in your home, there are people out there sleeping in this cold. If you can, find a blanket drive or community outreach program in your area and keep someone warm this winter.

cold front how to stay warm
Photo: Adobe Stock

Now read: Johannesburg weather: Storms rolling into Gauteng on Friday 30 April