Festive season weather warning: Medical experts urge caution

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) has issued an urgent heat warning as temperatures across the country rise to dangerous levels, cautioning that climate change is making summers hotter, more unpredictable and increasingly hazardous.

"With the changing climate, we're not only seeing warming temperatures... but the other change is that the likelihood of getting more frequent extreme weather events, such as flash flooding and very torrential rain," explains Professor Caradee Wright, SAMRC Chief Specialist Scientist.

Wright says infants, young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with pre-existing health conditions are among the most vulnerable.

She urges the public to take simple but potentially life-saving precautions during peak heat periods, including:

• Drinking clean water regularly and not waiting until feeling thirsty
• Avoiding outdoor activity during peak heat hours, typically from late morning to late afternoon
• Wearing hats, seeking shade and keeping living spaces well ventilated
• Avoiding alcohol, which worsens dehydration

Wright warns that heat-related illness can escalate rapidly if ignored, with early symptoms including dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps and extreme fatigue.

She states that people should act quickly by cooling the body and seeking medical help if symptoms worsen, noting that:

• Placing hands or feet in cool water can help lower body temperature

• Using a damp cloth or towel around the neck can provide relief
• Anyone showing signs of confusion or loss of consciousness needs immediate medical attention

To listen to Professor Caradee Wright in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, click the audio below: