Extreme heat alert: ALS Paramedics warn of dehydration as Durban temperature soars

Residents of Durban are being urged to take extra precautions as the city experiences unusually high temperatures and humidity.

ALS Paramedics report that the excessive heat is already having serious health effects today, February 6. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has forecast that the temperature in Durban will peak at 33°C with humidity at 75%.

“This morning (Friday, February 6) alone, ALS Paramedics have responded to multiple patients, both young and elderly, who collapsed due to the severe humidity,” said ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson.

“People are becoming dehydrated as a result of not drinking enough fluids. We urge everyone to manage their intake as you sweat, you lose bodily fluids, so you need to rehydrate.”

Jamieson also emphasised the importance of protecting vulnerable populations: “Please take care of the elderly and young, as they are more susceptible to dehydration than the average adult. Make sure your pets have access to water, as they can suffer from heat stress due to their fur.”

SAWS has issued warnings highlighting the dangerous conditions.

Hot and humid conditions are expected to continue over eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal until Saturday, and a heatwave is predicted to persist over the northern parts of the province until tomorrow.

In addition a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning, and hail has been forecast western and southern areas.

Meanwhile, KZN COGTA has also issued practical advice for residents to minimise heat-related risks:

• Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
• Do not go out during peak heat hours (11am to 3 pm).
• Do not consume alcohol, tea, coffee, or carbonated soft drinks.
• Do not consume high-protein, salty, or oily foods.
• Do not perform intense outdoor activities.
• Do not leave windows open if outside air is hotter than inside air.

Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, carry water bottles, use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, stay in the shade, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day.

Jamieson added, “If you do not need to work in the sun, please wait for the excessive heat to subside by the afternoon. If you are swimming, please do so safely and only in designated areas.”

With the combination of high temperatures, humidity, and thunderstorms in some areas, authorities are urging all residents to prioritise safety and take heat-related warnings seriously.

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