SAWS Weather Alert: Heatwave and Fire Danger Warnings Issued
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a critical weather alert for Tuesday, 10 December 2024, warning of extreme heat and high fire danger conditions across several provinces. With the summer season intensifying, these warnings are crucial to ensuring public safety and mitigating potential risks. Here’s everything you need to know.
Heatwave Warnings Across Provinces
A persistent heatwave is affecting large parts of South Africa, with high temperatures expected to continue in:
- Northern Cape (central, eastern, and northwestern parts)
- Eastern Cape (northern interior)
- Free State
- North West
- Mpumalanga Lowveld
- Limpopo Lowveld and Bushveld
- KwaZulu-Natal’s northern parts
Extremely hot and uncomfortable conditions will prevail in regions like the Namakwa District, the central Karoo, and the Breede River Valley until at least Wednesday, 11 December 2024.
Fire Danger Alert
SAWS has flagged extremely high fire danger conditions in:
- The western half of the Free State
- Northern Cape
- Northern parts of the Eastern Cape
- Northwestern and northeastern parts of the Western Cape
Precautionary Measures:
- Avoid open flames and outdoor activities that could trigger fires.
- Report any fires immediately to local authorities.
- Stay informed through local weather updates.
Regional Weather Forecasts
Here’s a breakdown of what residents can expect across various provinces:
Gauteng
- Conditions: Partly cloudy and warm with isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers.
- UV Index: High – Sunscreen and protective clothing are advised.
Mpumalanga
- Conditions: Cloudy in the morning, becoming partly cloudy and very hot in the Lowveld with isolated showers.
- Note: Extremely hot conditions in the Lowveld demand extra hydration and sun protection.
Limpopo
- Conditions: Morning clouds, then partly cloudy and very hot. Isolated showers and thundershowers except in the extreme northeast.
North West Province
- Conditions: Partly cloudy, hot to very hot with isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers.
Free State
- Conditions: Fine, hot to very hot. Isolated thundershowers expected in the northeast.
Northern Cape
- Conditions: Morning fog in western parts, otherwise fine, hot to extremely hot in the east.
Western Cape
- Conditions: Cool to warm along southwestern and southern parts, otherwise fine, hot to very hot.
- UV Index: Extreme – Minimize time outdoors during peak hours.
Eastern Cape
- Western Half: Fog in the south; fine and hot inland but warm along the coast.
- Eastern Half: Fog in the morning, partly cloudy with light rain along the Wild Coast and isolated thundershowers in the northeast.
KwaZulu-Natal
- Conditions: Morning fog patches, partly cloudy, warm to hot, and very hot in the north. Isolated showers and thundershowers expected.
- UV Index: High – Protective measures against sun exposure are essential.
What This Means for You
Heatwave Precautions:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if outdoors.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
- Protect Yourself: Use sunscreen, wear light clothing, and stay in shaded areas.
Fire Safety Tips:
- Refrain from using fireworks or lighting fires in open areas.
- Secure your property by removing dry vegetation around your home.
- Have an evacuation plan in place if you live in high-risk areas.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing extreme weather conditions emphasize the importance of vigilance and preparedness. Residents in affected areas should heed warnings, monitor updates from SAWS, and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their communities.
