Heatwave alert: how to stay safe and cool in South Africa this summer
With the imminent arrival of summer, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a heatwave alert, cautioning residents to brace themselves for persistently high temperatures that could bring serious health and safety risks.
This alert primarily affects parts of Gauteng, North West, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the north-western regions of KwaZulu-Natal.
Now, more than ever, it is crucial for citizens to find ways to stay cool and safe during the upcoming sweltering months.
To combat the effects of extreme heat, SAWS recommends a series of precautionary measures. Staying hydrated is key, so residents are advised to drink plenty of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
Protective attire will also help; light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing paired with wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can shield you from sun exposure. Additionally, the application of sunscreen is essential when spending extended periods outdoors.
While heat waves pose challenges, they also provide an opportunity to explore refreshing activities that beat the heat. Enjoying a picnic in a scenic park settings is one delightful way to celebrate summer while keeping cool.
Pack up your picnic baskets and enjoy time with friends and family under the shade of a tree. The joy of good food coupled with social connection can make for unforgettable summer memories.
Below are a few suggestions of other things to do and where to go to.
Explore South Africa's scenic outdoor spaces
Get out your picnic baskets and enjoy a day out sitting under a tree or cooling off under an umbrella on the lawn. A simple picnic with a few snacks and light dishes is all you need to have a great time catching up with loved ones.
A picnic is a fun and relaxing way to build memories and enjoy the presence of others.
Zoo Lake, Johannesburg: Zoo Lake is one of Johannesburg's most popular outdoor spaces and certainly one of the safest, particularly over weekends.
Set on the corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and West World Street, just across from the Johannesburg Zoo, it is known for its vibrant atmosphere and is bustling with joggers, dog walkers, skateboarders and kids.
Take a leisurely row on the lake or treat yourself to a meal at one of the nearby restaurants, what you do is entirely up to you.
The beauty of visiting the lake is that it’s free.
Durban Botanic Gardens: A perfect spot for families, the Durban Botanic Gardens welcomes picnic enthusiasts to lay down blankets under majestic trees.
Located in the heart of the city, Durban Botanic Gardens is a popular picnic spot in Durban especially for the cool shade it provides during hot summer months.
If this is your preferred picnic spot, be mindful of designated areas reserved for specific events. Entrance into the garden is free.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain in Cape Town, Kirstenbosch allows picnicking on its stunning lawns.
Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of the setting of Kirstenbosch, against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain.
Though picnics are allowed in Kirstenbosch but you are not permitted to take chairs, tables, umbrellas, tents etc. into the garden. Braais are also not allowed.
The garden has entry fee of R100 for adults and R40 for kids.
Embrace the beach life
As temperatures soar, the cool embrace of the ocean offers a refreshing escape. The phenomenon of sea breeze, where cooler air from the ocean flows ashore, creates inviting beach conditions.
South Africa’s extensive coastline stretches over 3,000 kilometres, offering numerous options for escaping the heat
Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town: Renowned for its soft sandy stretch and family-friendly waves, Muizenberg also features vibrant bathing boxes and warm waters.
It also boasts one of Cape Town’s top blue-flag swimming beaches, making it the perfect beach escape for enjoying a lovely laid-back day with the whole family.
Life guards are on duty during the Blue Flag season (December – March) and shark spotters positioned high up on the mountain keep an eye out for sharks in the water below. Entry is free.
Point Beach, Durban: If you’re in KwaZulu-Natal, consider visiting Point Beach on Point Waterfront.
This beach on the Point Waterfront is bustling with activity due to its proximity to uShaka Marine World, where all-age pedal boat rides are available, and dining options abound at the Durban on Point Food Court, where you can watch the ships coming into the harbour.
Swimming at the beach is free.
Cool off with cruises and water sports
Summer is the perfect time for water-based adventures. Cruises along the Western Cape coastline offer the chance to witness spectacular marine wildlife.
Alternatively, hop aboard the City Sightseeing’s red harbour cruiser at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront for a unique guided harbour tour, where you may spot Cape fur seals frolicking nearby.
If you're seeking something more active, visit Hartbeespoort Dam, often referred to as Harties.
Nestled amid the picturesque Magaliesberg mountains, this scenic hotspot boasts water sports, hiking trails, and cycling opportunities. Similarly, Midmar Dam offers shady picnic areas alongside thrilling water activities like jet skiing and sailing.
With the season’s arrival accompanied by the heatwave warning, South Africans are encouraged to take proactive measures to stay cool.
Embrace the beauty and excitement of our natural landscapes, build new summer memories and stay safe during these blistering months.