With the heatwave ravaging Gauteng and other parts of the country, experts have warned people to stay hydrated and look after their skin.
Although heatwaves are not as destructive as other natural hazards, they can cause negative health impacts that can be prevented if necessary measures are taken. High temperatures are not just uncomfortable, they are bad for your health and can even be deadly.
Dr Thabo Ndwambi, a dermatologist who runs a practice in Soshanguve, Tshwane, told Sowetan that exposure to hotter-than-average temperature compromises the body's ability to regulate temperature and can result in a cascade of illnesses.
Ndwambi suggested that people should keep cool by taking lots of fluids and wear light clothing.
“This heatwave may result in causing severe dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat-strokes, diarrhoea and hyperthermia,” he said, explaining that people should also normalise checking on family members, friends and neighbours who spend most of their times alone, especially elderly people with chronic diseases should be visited daily.
Ndwambi urges the public to seek urgent medical attention when not feeling well.
“Get help when you feel dizzy, sweating heavily, weak, anxious or experiencing intense thirst and headaches,” he said.
The SA Weather Service has issued warnings that most parts of Gauteng will receive persistent high temperatures throughout this week.
City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said the hot, dry and windy weather also presents the threat of veld fires.
“People are discouraged from dumping their burning cigarette butts on dry grass or leaving open fires unmonitored,” suggested Mulaudzi.
He said it's best to avoid direct sunlight by wearing a hat and use sunscreen.
“People must not leave children or pets in parked locked vehicles, they should stay in or under the shade, and drink lots of water to prevent dehydration,” he said, with emphasis that people should take frequent breaks if they are working outdoors.
“Protect young children by wearing hats and keeping them away from direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm. Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated or carbonated drinks.”
