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There a heatwave that is sweeping across Southern Africa from today and, according to experts, one of the things to avoid when it hits is drinking alcohol.
The Meteorological Department has issued a warning that it will be very hot across the country from today until Sunday with temperatures, in other areas, rising to as high as 44 degrees Celsius in Gwanda.
If it hits us, as the experts are predicting, one of the things to avoid is drinking alcohol.
Interestingly, experts say alcohol and caffeine may contribute to dehydration.
The Met Department urged people to stay hydrated.
“Very hot to extremely hot temperatures in the range of 36 degrees to 44 degrees Celsius are expected.
“Many areas in Zimbabwe will be recording high temperatures, with the highest being Gwanda at 44 degrees Celsius,” the Met Department said. Reports said it will also be extremely hot in Mozambique, Malawi and South Africa.
The South African Weather Service issued a weather warning amid reports that a heatwave was set to affect large parts of the country.
Some areas will be affected until, at least, tomorrow.
They include parts of KwaZulu-Natal, north-eastern North West, Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga.
There are signs and symptoms related to heat injuries.
These include weakness, seizures, vomiting, nausea, dizziness and cramps.
According to the Word Meteorological Organisation, this year is on track to be the hottest year on record, with the global average near surface temperature even higher than last year.
WMO’s global temperature analysis covers January to September 2024 and is based on six international datasets to provide a consolidated temperature assessment.
The information was provided to UN Secretary-General António Guterres ahead of the UN Climate Change conference, COP29, in Baku, Azerbaijan.
“Today, the World Meteorological Organisation and partners tell us that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year ever recorded,” said Mr Guterres.
“Humanity’s torching the planet and paying the price.“
The scientists said 2024 will also be the first year in which the planet is more than 1,5C hotter than in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period, when humans began burning fossil fuels on an industrial scale.
Carbon dioxide emissions from burning coal, oil and gas are the main cause of global warming.
In South Africa, they are even giving a few tips of how to deal with the heatwave expected from today:
Do not leave children and pets in a vehicle, even with a window open.
Stay well hydrated by drinking a lot of water.
Keep a close eye on babies, the elderly and children. Ensure they stay well hydrated as well.
Remember to ensure pets have a cool place to relax and cool, clean water to drink as well.
Try to keep out of direct sunlight.
Wear the appropriate clothing and ensure you use sunscreen.
Limit participation in outdoor activities. If you plan on participating in outdoor activities, ensure you rest and keep well hydrated.
If you are going to spend time in a pool, ensure your safety and the children around you.
Ensure that they are supervised while around and in the pool.
Sinokubonga Nkala
