The South African Weather Services (SAWS) has issued a fire danger warning for the West Coast interior, including areas in the Cape Winelands and Central Karoo on Tuesday and Wednesday. This is amid scorching hot temperatures in the region. At the same time, Capetonians, along with residents from the West Coast, Cape Winelands, Little and Central Karoo can brace themselves for extremely hot and uncomfortable conditions on Wednesday.

Cape Town is expected to reach a high of 34 degrees, with towns in the Cape Winelands nearing 40-degree highs.

The City of Cape Town has therefore urged the public to please take heed of the following advice:

Key tips to Beat the Heat include:

• Water: Drink plenty of water. Use of water in spray bottles to cool down. Carry a wet cloth/face towel to wipe the face and neck when hot, and submerge feet in cold water to help regulate blood flow that will help to cool the body.
• Seek relief in covered public spaces such as shopping malls and libraries.
• Wear a wide-brim hat, lightweight, loose clothing and take cool showers or baths.
• Limit outdoor activity to earlier or later in the day.
• Take action at the first sign of a heat-related illness like muscle cramps, heavy sweating, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, confusion, a fast pulse and high body temperature. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

With many looking to head to beaches and pools to cool down, the Mayoral Committee Member for the City’s Parks and Recreation Department Patricia van der Ross has also urged bathers to remain cautious, as at least 11 drownings and 30 near-drownings have been reported over the December period.

At the same time, the National Sea Rescue Institute has urged Capetonians to be cautious when swimming in water where seal activity has been spotted. This follows Monday’s incident on False Bay, involving a seal and freedivers off Simons Town’s Windmill Beach.

With warmer temperatures expected in the coming days and increased visitors and Capetonians at local beaches, NSRI spokesperson Andrew Ingram has called on beachgoers to follow any beach closures or warnings issued by authorities and to respect posted signs indicating areas where a seal has been reported.

READ MORE: Cape Town student rescues woman caught in rip currents in Mossel Bay