The South African Weather Service (SWAS) has issued a warning for a week-long heatwave. Extremely high temperatures are expected in Gauteng, the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

The North West and the Free State have also been warned of high temperatures. However, temperatures are expected to subside on Wednesday.

Weather expert, Annette Botha says temperatures are expected to rise above 40 degrees-Celsius.

“So, we are expecting above average temperatures for at least the next two weeks over the eastern areas of South Africa. Now, these temperatures are extremely dangerous. It’s not just like a normal summer day because for a heatwave to be declared by the SAWS, the temperature needs to be five degrees above the average temperature for the hottest month for at least three days. So, please just rather take precautionary measurements.”

🌡️A heat wave with persistently high temperatures is expected over Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, the central and eastern parts of the North West, the northern parts of the Free State & the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal until at least Friday (06 December 2024).#saws pic.twitter.com/8rRMWODTwo

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) December 2, 2024

VIDEO | Weather expert Annette Botha says the temperatures are dangerous and it is important for people to heed the service’s warnings.