Cape Town braces for heatwave: Public urged to take precautions

The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre has issued a warning to residents and visitors to exercise caution as temperatures are expected to soar this week.

According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), Cape Town is set to experience a heatwave, with temperatures reaching a peak of 33 degrees Celsius in the Cape Metropole on Thursday.

Heatwave Advisory Issued for Several Regions

SAWS has issued an advisory for high temperatures across several regions, including:

• Cape Metropole

• Cape Winelands

• West Coast

The extreme heat is expected to persist from Thursday through Sunday, making it one of the hottest spells of the season.

Residents have been urged to limit outdoor activities, particularly during the peak hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., when temperatures will be at their highest.

City Officials Warn Against Heat-Related Illnesses

In response to the heatwave, the City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre has urged people to take precautions to reduce the risk of heat exposure.

City spokesperson Sonica Lategan emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, including:

• Young children

• Elderly individuals

• Pregnant women

• People with pre-existing health conditions

Lategan further warned that heat-related illnesses can be dangerous if not treated promptly.

“Take action at the first sign of a heat-related illness like muscle cramps, heavy sweating, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, confusion, a fast pulse, and high body temperature. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately,” she advised.

Precautionary Measures to Stay Safe in the Heat

To minimize the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, residents and visitors are encouraged to:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• Avoid excessive sun exposure: Stay indoors or in shaded areas during the hottest part of the day.

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing: Choose light-colored fabrics to reflect heat.

• Use sunscreen: Apply SPF 30 or higher to protect against sunburn.

• Keep indoor spaces cool: Use fans or air-conditioning where possible and keep curtains or blinds closed during peak sunlight hours.

• Check on vulnerable individuals: Ensure that young children, the elderly, and people with chronic health conditions are staying cool and hydrated.

Two Oceans Marathon Participants Advised to Take Extra Caution

The warning comes just days before the Two Oceans Marathon, which takes place in Cape Town this weekend. With thousands of runners expected to participate in both the marathon and half-marathon, officials are urging athletes to take extra precautions in the extreme heat.

Runners have been advised to:

• Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after the race.

• Listen to their bodies and slow down or stop if they experience dizziness, nausea, or excessive fatigue.

• Wear a hat and use sunscreen to reduce sun exposure.

• Make use of water stations along the route and keep cool with wet sponges or misting stations.

Emergency Services on High Alert

Emergency services and medical teams will be on high alert throughout the weekend, particularly at sports events and outdoor gatherings.

Heatwaves can be particularly dangerous for people with underlying health conditions, so authorities strongly advise that those at risk stay indoors as much as possible.

Looking Ahead

The heatwave is expected to last until Sunday, after which temperatures may begin to cool down slightly. However, officials are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates if necessary.

For now, staying cool, hydrated, and safe remains the priority for all Cape Town residents and visitors.