South Africa anticipates warmer weather and the possibility of even more heatwaves for coming months
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) recommends keeping track of their updates, pointing out uncertainties in rainfall predictions.
Fun in the sun might be cancelled for summer as El Nino will be in full effect as experts (SAWS) continue to closely monitor the weather
Navigating a Heatwave.
The South African government has warned the El Niño conditions are worsening the summer heat in the country According to the government, (SAWS) Lead Scientist: Long Range Prediction, Dr Christien Engelbrecht said:
“El Niño events are typically warmer and drier over southern Africa during the summer months. However, current seasonal predictions indicate uncertainty for the typical drier conditions over the northeastern parts of the country where the current prediction indicates low probabilities for above-normal rainfall.”
People most at risk during heatwaves heat are infants, children and pregnant women, but trying to survive intense temperatures is a daunting task for anyone. but lucky Unicef shed light on how to navigate the ‘wave’.
Keep the house cool.
Make moves to keep the air circulating. Of course, having a cooler or fan is ideal, but there are more environment ways. Try keeping your curtains closed and windows open at night are excellent tips to bring those high temperatures down.
Drink lots of water
According to Red Cross, drinking 3 litters of water a day is the goal but everyone’s needs are different, monitoring the color of your urine is a great indicator that you are drinking enough water with a dark yellow shade being an indicator that you are not drinking enough water. Best to stay away from sugary drinks, caffeine and alcoholic beverages during this period.
Stay out of the heat
No better way to stay safe from heat than to keep away from the son. Avoiding going outside during the hottest time of the day and wear sunscreen and protactive but breathable clothing.
Navigating the heatwave in South Africa
It is important to monitor ourselves and others to watch out for the more harsh effects of the heat like heat exhaustion. Red Cross reports that recognisable signs include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, a fast and weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness, and symptoms such as dizziness, headache, or passing out.
Exhaustion
In case of heat exhaustion, it is advised to move to a cool place, loosen tight clothing, cool the body using wet cloths, misting, fanning, or a cool bath, and sip water slowly. Immediate medical assistance is crucial if vomiting occurs, symptoms persist or worsen after an hour, or confusion develops.
Heat stroke
For heat stroke, recognizing the symptoms is crucial, including a high body temperature ( 40°C or higher), hot and red skin, a fast and strong pulse, along with symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or passing out.
What to do when you experience the above
If you observe these signs, call an emergency hotline immediately. Subsequently, move the individual to a cool place and initiate cooling measures using wet cloths, misting, fanning, or a cool bath. Importantly, refrain from giving the person anything to drink. Quick and appropriate action is vital in addressing heat stroke effectively.