Limpopo heatwave: Which areas are affected and how long will it last?

Parts of Limpopo face several more days of scorching temperatures as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warns that a heatwave will continue in the province’s Western Bushveld until Friday.

The weather service expects very hot conditions in parts of the Western Bushveld on Wednesday, while other areas of the province will experience warm to hot weather.

Which areas are affected?

The heatwave advisory specifically covers places in Limpopo’s Western Bushveld, rather than the entire province.

Towns in the western part of the province, including Thabazimbi and Lephalale, should monitor the latest forecasts as high temperatures persist.

SAWS has also issued heat-related advisories covering several Limpopo towns, including Mokopane, Mogoto, Bela-Bela and Dendron.

However, not all these towns fall within the Western Bushveld heatwave area.

Elsewhere in the province, Wednesday’s forecast indicates cloudy conditions and morning fog patches in some south-central areas, followed by generally warm to hot weather.

How long will the Limpopo heatwave last?

According to SAWS, persistently high temperatures will continue in places over the Western Bushveld until Friday, 23 October.

The advisory does not necessarily mean temperatures will return to normal immediately on Saturday.

Residents should continue checking updated forecasts to see whether the heat will ease or persist into the weekend.

How can residents protect themselves?

SAWS advises residents to drink enough water, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and seek shade where possible.

People working outdoors should take regular breaks in cooler areas and pay attention to signs of heat-related illness.

Parents and caregivers should ensure children have access to drinking water and avoid leaving them unattended in parked vehicles.

How are you coping with the rising temperatures in your area?