Cape Town hottest ever june temperatures record

The Western Cape is set to have a heatwave this weekend. Image via Unsplash

Extreme weather alert: How to stay cool AND safe during SA heatwave

Keep calm and follow these simple steps to make sure you and your family members are safe and cool during Western Cape’s heatwave!

Cape Town hottest ever june temperatures record

The Western Cape is set to have a heatwave this weekend. Image via Unsplash

For the last few days, Western Cape residents have been subjected to extreme heat and unfortunately for them, it’s about to get even hotter. The South African weather service just issued a warning about the extreme heatwave that will hit the Northern and Western Cape provinces and to be honest, it’s something worth preparing for.

Western Cape heatwave: Here’s how you can stay cool AND safe

Temperatures in the Western Cape continue to soar and are expected to go up to 45C on Saturday 22 January and Sunday 23 January in some parts of the province.

Reports find that Saldanha Bay, Wellington, and Riebeek-Wes will be the hottest while isolated areas of the Garden Route will also reach temperatures as high as 46 degrees.

Needless to say, this heatwave is considered life-threatening and if one is not well prepared, one may have to deal with severe consequences.

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To keep safe and cool during this time, you can:

Beat the Western Cape heatwave by dressing appropriately

Wear clothes that are light and airy. Avoid dark colours and heavy sleeves. HowStuffWorks advises that you opt for UV-protective and moisture-wicking clothing that help your body sweat and protect you from sunburn.

Stay hydrated at all times

We all know that drinking water is very important. During a heatwave, it becomes even more crucial that you keep your body hydrated at all times.

That means to drink up even when you’re not particularly parched. It’s also good to note that drinking sugary drinks like cold-drink and juices are not advised because they make you lose fluids.

Avoid too physical activity

Be careful not to over-exert yourself especially when the temperature is at its peak. If you have no choice but to physically work during a heatwave, be sure to take frequent breaks in some shade.

Pay attention to your breathing and heart rate, if you feel light-headed, dizzy, or confused, be sure to stop whatever you’re doing and take some time to cool off.

Check up on those who’re at risk of suffering the most

If you live or work with anyone who is likely to suffer a heat-related illness, make sure to keep a very close eye on them. Infants, elderly people, and those with other illnesses such as obesity often struggle in heat waves and will need to be monitored.

Make sure they are staying inside in a well-ventilated room and drinking enough water. They should also avoid strenuous activities.

Keep cool

Keep your fan and air conditioner on at all times. If you don’t have either of these, you can keep the windows open to let some air in.

Alternatively, you can visit a mall, movie theater, or library where there will likely be an air conditioning system that will help you regulate your temperature.

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