Cape Town heat wave shatters records!

The impact of this week's heat wave has been unprecedented. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed that Western Cape stations have recorded their highest March temperatures in more than a decade, surpassing records set during the extreme heat event of 3 March 2015. 

Alexander Bay, located at the mouth of the Orange River on South Africa's northwestern border with Namibia peaked at close to 45°C this week. At the same time, places like the centre of Cape Town, Kirstenbosch and Worcester all tipped the mercury closer to +42°C, breaking heat records across the board. 

When will the heat wave end?

Relief is on the way as the high-pressure system driving the extreme heat begins to weaken and move away from the region. Respite was already felt on Friday morning. According to SAWS:

• Friday, 13 March: Expected to be the final day of heat wave conditions, with gradual cooling beginning along the coast.
• Saturday, 14 March: Temperatures are expected to drop further, bringing cooler and more seasonal conditions across the province. 

Stay safe in the heat

Making the most of the summer heat in the Mother City is never an issue. From the cool Atlantic Ocean of Camps Bay to the easy-access public pools, to the stunning hotel pools, locals and visitors have endless options for beating the heat this weekend.

But residents are encouraged to take precautions:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity between 12:00 and 15:00
• Check regularly on elderly people and babies.
• Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles.

Water update: Save water while staying cool

And with the heat, we've all got water safety on our minds. Cape Town is not currently in a drought, but the window to avoid potential water restrictions later this year is narrowing. The City is in an early warning phase due to lower-than-expected dam levels. While there is no immediate threat to supply, careful water use is essential as the city moves toward the winter rainfall season.

• Current dam levels: 51,8%
• Daily water use: 1 018 million litres per day
• Usage target: 975 million litres per day

At the current usage rate, dam levels could drop to around 40% by May if winter rainfall is average. Residents are urged to continue using water responsibly, especially during hot weather when demand typically increases. 

Simple ways to save water

• Fix dripping taps, leaking toilets and plumbing leaks
• Water gardens at night to reduce evaporation
• Avoid unnecessary topping up of pools
• Monitor your household water use

Residents should also report burst municipal pipes to the City as soon as possible.

 086 010 3089 (choose option 2)

SMS: 31373

WhatsApp: 060 018 1505

water@capetown.gov.za 

See our recommended list for ways to keep cool:

• The 19 best beaches in Cape Town 

• The 14 best tidal pools in Cape Town 

• The 15 best roof-top pools in Cape Town   

• Beat the heat at these public pools in Cape Town