Weather warning: EXTREMELY high fire danger TODAY

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a weather warning for today, 2 January 2023.

Weather warning for fire danger

Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over the following areas:

• Northern Cape’s ZF Mgcawu district
• Namakwa district
• Kareeberg local municipalities
• Western Cape’s Cederberg
• Drakenstein

Hot and humid weather will also result in very uncomfortable conditions in the Little Karoo, Nama Khoi, and Drakenstein.

KEEP SAFE DURING HOT AND HUMID CONDITIONS

Arrive Alive gives the following tips for staying safe in hot and humid weather:

• Drink plenty of water
• Do not exert yourself outside in hot temperatures
• Avoid the midday sun
• Avoid excessive alcohol outside in hot temperatures as this leads to dehydration
• Wear sunscreen, as sunburn contributes to a rise in body temperature
• Focus on the most vulnerable among us. Children can die within minutes if left inside a parked car during the summer.
• Never leave children alone in parked vehicles, even if your windows are rolled down, and the air conditioning is on.
• Keep your doors locked and keys out of the reach of children.
• Have plenty of fluids at hand to prevent dehydration.
• Know the symptoms and signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration.
• Symptoms of heat exhaustion include sweating, dizziness, nausea and a fast pulse.
• Keep in mind that heat exhaustion can make drivers drowsy and easily fatigued.

ALSO READ: Weather warning: Extremely high fire danger on New Year’s Day