Heatwave: South Africans in THIS province told to ‘avoid alcohol’

People in these 16 districts - all within the same province - has been warned against trying to hydrate themselves with alcohol during this heatwave.

Oct 3, 2022 - 14:27
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Heatwave: South Africans in THIS province told to ‘avoid alcohol’

A majority of provinces in South Africa have now been issued with either a weather warning OR advisory, as a post-winter heatwave blisters its way across the country. However, locals in one particular region have been told to ‘avoid alcohol’ as a precaution.

Heatwave warning prompts alcohol warning for KZN

Advice across the board – for the provinces of Gauteng, Free State, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga – encourages those affected to try and stay out of the sun, sit out any form of strenuous activity, and stay hydrated. However, this wording goes a step further on the east coast.

Officials in KZN have warned the public against drinking ‘large quantities of alcohol’ as a way of combating the heat. A rake of beers may sound rather refreshing, but liquor also has the ability to dehydrate the body. Therefore, this regional branch of SAWS is leaving nothing to chance.

“Heat stroke, heat cramps, or heat exhaustion are possible with prolonged heat exposure. Stay indoors in a cool room near a fan if possible. The old, young children and people with pre-existing diseases must take extra care to stay hydrated and cool.”

“Avoid strenuous outdoor activity, playing excessive sport and hard labour. Dress in light weight clothes and drink plenty of liquids NOT alcohol. Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions from disaster management officers.” | SAWS advisory for KZN

Areas of KZN told to avoid alcohol during latest heatwave

The amended wording applies to the following districts of KZN, for Monday 3 October and Tuesday 4 October:

  • Abaqulusi
  • Big Five Hlabisa
  • Dumbe
  • Jozini
  • KwaDukuza
  • uMhlabuyalingana
  • Mandeni
  • Maphumolo
  • uMhlathuze
  • Mthonjaneni
  • Mtubatuba
  • Ndwedwe
  • Nkandla
  • Nongoma
  • Phongolo
  • Ulundi
Those living in the regions highlighted purple have been told to avoid alcohol as a means of keeping hydrated’ – Photo: SAWS

How to keep yourself protected from the sun

The national government has also advised South Africans besieged by the heatwave to take all necessary steps to stave-off these extreme conditions. They have also stressed the importance of using sunscreen and hats to keep skin well-protected.

“Extremely hot and uncomfortable conditions are now expected. We advise all of our citizens to keep safe during heatwave. You must remember to drink plenty of liquids, try to avoid the sun, apply sunscreen regularly and if possible, wear a brimmed hat.” | SA Government on Twitter