Weather

The South African Weather Service has issued warnings for extreme fire danger and wind. Image: Pixabay

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

The SAWS has issued a weather warning for extremely high fire danger as well as a warning for strong wind on New Year’s Day

Weather

The South African Weather Service has issued warnings for extreme fire danger and wind. Image: Pixabay

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for wind and fire on New Year’s Day, 1 January 2023.

Weather warnings for wind and fire 

A yellow level 2 warning for wind leading to difficulty navigating at sea was issued between Dassen Island and Hermanus while build-up of sand is possible on the False Bay coastal routes.

Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over most parts of Namakwa district in the Northern Cape, as well as the western and south-western parts of Western Cape.  

A heat wave with persistently high temperatures is expected for the following areas: 

  • Nama Khoi, Kamiesberg
  • Municipalities of the Northern Cape
  • Matzikama Municipality of the Western Cape

Hot and humid weather will result in extremely

uncomfortable conditions over the West Coast district of Western Cape.

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.

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