High discomfort levels are being experienced across the Eastern Cape today (22/03/17), with temperatures only expected to drop after 4pm, according to the South African Weather service.
According to the SA Weather Service Twitter page, the temperature in a motor vehicle can rise to more than 10°C than the outside temperature in just 10 minutes and 20°C in 30 minutes. Eastern Cape residents are advised to “not leave pets or children in motor vehicles, especially in hot conditions.”
Do not leave pets or children in motor vehicles, especially in hot conditions.
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic)
Eastern Cape, provincial weather office spokesman Garth Sampson stated that at 2pm, the following figures were recorded:
Plettenberg Bay DCI 91 temp 25C Max till 2pm 33C Joubertina DCI 104 temp 36C Max till 2pm 37C Patensie DCI 109 temp 39C Max till 2pm 41C Uitenhage DCI 108 temp 38C Max till 2pm 41C Port Elizabeth DCI 109 temp 38C Max till 2pm 39C Coega DCI 98 temp 31C Max till 2pm 39C Port Alfred DCI 103 temp 36C Max till 2pm 36C East London DCI 100 temp 32C Max till 2pm 34C Addo DCI 112 temp 40C Max till 2pm 40C Grahamstown DCI 101 temp 35C Max till 2pm 35C Graaf Reinet DCI 100 temp 35C Max till 2pm 37C Queenstown DCI 102 temp 31C Max till 2pm 32C Mthatha DCI 102 temp 35C Max till 2pm 35C Cradock DCI 100 temp 35C Max till 2pm 35C Bisho DCI 104 temp 36C Max till 2pm 36C Fort Beaufort DCI 106 temp 38C Max till 2pm 38C
“When temperature and humidity are high at the same time, humans ability to cool their bodies through sweating are reduced. This can be a real threat,” he added.
The following precautions are advised:
- Stay indoors in a cool room near a fan if possible
- The old and infirm must take extra care
- Listen to the radio or TV for warnings
- Cease strenuous outdoor activity if advised
- Avoid playing sport
- Dress in light weight clothes
- Drink plenty of liquids NOT alcohol