Cape Town is gearing up for a sweltering weekend, with temperatures expected to climb well above the seasonal norm. 

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a heat advisory for the city, warning of potentially dangerous conditions as maximum temperatures are set to exceed 35°C in some areas.

Disaster Risk Management spokesperson Sonica Lategan said residents should take extra care during the extreme heat period and follow safety protocols to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

“Cape Town is known for its beautiful, warm summers, but it is also no stranger to extreme temperatures and heat waves. Understanding how heat impacts you and your family is an important part of building household and individual resilience during extreme heat events,” said Lategan.

The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre is reminding residents to stay out of direct sunlight where possible, wear light clothing and sunscreen, remain hydrated, and pay close attention to the wellbeing of children, the elderly, pets and other vulnerable groups.

Lategan added that increased temperatures also raise the risk of veldfires, urging the public to be cautious around open flames and to report any signs of fire or emergencies to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre.

According to the World Health Organisation, extreme heat and heat waves are considered “silent emergencies” among the most dangerous natural hazards due to their effects on health, disruption of essential services, and damage to infrastructure.

SAWS defines a heatwave as three or more consecutive days when the maximum temperature is at least 5°C higher than the average for the hottest month.

In Cape Town, this threshold starts at 32°C, while a “high heat day” is any day where the temperature meets or exceeds 35°C.

The City has developed a High Heat Day and Heat Wave Action Plan to guide its response to extreme temperatures and safeguard public health. The plan focuses on three key components: Heat Readiness, Heat Response, and Knowledge Management and Research.

Amy Davison, the City’s Head of Climate Change, previously noted that understanding and addressing heat impacts is an ongoing priority. 

To stay informed, residents are encouraged to follow the SA Weather Service on social media, which provides accurate updates on approaching heat conditions.

Lategan emphasised that preparation is essential during high heat events.

“Follow our tips to ensure that you are ready, able to respond, and informed about how to stay safe and healthy in extreme heat,” she said.

The City advises keeping an emergency kit with backup batteries and chargers, at least four to five litres of water per person per day, and basic first-aid knowledge to recognise and respond to heat-related illness.

As temperatures soar this weekend, Cape Town’s residents are urged to take the heat seriously, stay cool, stay hydrated, and check on those most vulnerable.

IOL News

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