Capetonians are in for a scorching hot weekend as The South African Weather Services (SAWS) warns of hot to extremely hot and uncomfortable conditions from Thursday until Sunday. The City of Cape Town, West Coast and the Cape Winelands districts are said to be most affected. Temperatures of up to 36 degrees are expected on Wednesday.

The South African Weather Service issued an advisory on Wednesday for increased temperatures in various parts of the province.

The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre has advised the public to take heed of the advisory and take the necessary precautions to limit their risk of heat exposure. This is particularly for those planning to participate in the Two Oceans marathon and half marathon, as well as preceding races this weekend.

READ MORE: Two Oceans Marathon: races & road closures

This comes as The South African Weather Sevices has warned several parts of the country of isolated to scattered showers & thundershowers over the central & eastern parts of the country.

Weather outlook for Thursday & Friday, 3- 4 April 2025: Partly cloudy & warm, but cool along the east coast & adjacent interior with isolated to scattered showers & thundershowers over the central & eastern areas of the country. #saws #weatheroutlook #southafricanweather pic.twitter.com/IJ2uBl6G1Y

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) April 1, 2025

Tips to follow during heat waves

• Drinking plenty of water, using water in spray bottles to cool down, carrying a wet cloth/face towel to wipe the face and neck when hot, and submerging feet in cold water to help regulate blood flow and cool the body.
• Seek relief in covered public spaces such as shopping malls and libraries.
• Wear a wide-brim hat, and 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.

The City has also urged residents to keep an eye on vulnerable individuals like the elderly, pregnant women and young children. People are also urged to make provision for pets and ensure they have access to shade and plenty of fresh water.

The increased temperatures also elevate the risk of wildfires and the public is urged to be on high alert for any heat-related impacts and to report any emergencies to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialling 021 480 7700 from a cellphone, or 107 from a landline.