THROWBACK: SA heatwave sent temperatures soaring to nearly 47°C

South Africa endured days of extreme heat in November 2023, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in several areas and more than 10 weather stations recording new November highs.

The heatwave began on 19 November and reached its peak on 27 November.

Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape recorded a maximum temperature of 46.7°C, setting a new November record for the weather station.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed that the reading broke the previous November record of 46.2°C, recorded on 28 November 2019.

More than 10 stations broke November records

The Northern Cape experienced some of the most intense heat, with extreme conditions extending into neighbouring parts of North West and the Free State.

However, the 46.7°C reading did not break Augrabies Falls’ all-time temperature record.

The station recorded 48.6°C on 5 January 2016, which remains its highest maximum temperature.

Other parts of the country also recorded unusually high temperatures.

Richards Bay Airport reached 40.5°C on 24 November, breaking its previous November record of 39.5°C, set in 2008.

What caused the extreme heat?

SAWS attributed the hot conditions to a surface high-pressure system, supported by convergence in the upper atmosphere.

The weather service had warned that the heat would persist in several areas.

It extended the heatwave advisory until 28 November as temperatures remained extremely high.

The November 2023 heatwave showed how quickly temperatures can rise across the country, particularly in the interior.

The event also highlighted the importance of following SAWS heat advisories, especially when high temperatures persist for several days.