South African Weather Service warns of extreme fire danger in the Western Cape and a heat wave in the Northern Cape for Friday, 16 May 2025.
Weather Alert: The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued critical weather warnings for Friday, 16 May 2025, highlighting extreme fire danger conditions in parts of the Western Cape and a persistent heat wave in the Northern Cape.
🔥 Fire Danger Warnings
Residents in Beaufort West and Laingsburg municipalities should be on high alert as SAWS forecasts extremely high fire danger conditions. The combination of dry weather and strong winds increases the risk of wildfires, posing a significant threat to life and property. Authorities urge the public to avoid open flames, refrain from outdoor burning, and report any signs of fire immediately.
🌡️ Heat Wave Advisory
In the Richtersveld Municipality of the Northern Cape, a heat wave with persistently high temperatures is expected to continue. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
🌍 Provincial Weather Forecast for Friday, 16 May 2025
- Gauteng: Early morning fog in places; otherwise, partly cloudy and cool. UVB sunburn index: High.
- Mpumalanga: Morning fog patches along the escarpment; otherwise, fine and cool, but partly cloudy in the east. Warm in the Lowveld.
- Limpopo: Partly cloudy and cool to warm; cloudy in the north with isolated showers and rain in the northeast.
- North West: Partly cloudy in the east; otherwise, fine and cool.
- Free State: Partly cloudy in the east; otherwise, fine and cool.
- Northern Cape: Fine and cool to warm, but hot to very hot in the extreme western parts.
- Western Cape: Morning fog in places in the south and again in the southwest from the evening; otherwise, fine and warm to hot, but partly cloudy along the south coastline. UVB sunburn index: High.
- Eastern Cape (Western Half): Fine and warm.
- Eastern Cape (Eastern Half): Fine and warm.
- KwaZulu-Natal: Morning fog patches over the northern interior; otherwise, partly cloudy and cool, but warm in the east. UVB sunburn index: Very High.
⚠️ Safety Recommendations
- Avoid open flames and outdoor burning in high-risk areas.
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours, especially in the Northern Cape.
- Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
- Stay hydrated and check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and children.
Stay informed by following SAWS updates and adhering to local advisories to ensure safety during these extreme weather conditions.
Also read: Today’s Weather Forecast – 16 May 2025
