Eastern Cape heatwave: Which areas face another hot weekend?

Residents in parts of the Eastern Cape should prepare for another hot weekend as a heatwave continues to affect parts of the province.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that persistently high temperatures will affect areas in the Chris Hani and Alfred Nzo district municipalities until Sunday.

The advisory comes as the province heads into the weekend, with residents in affected areas facing several days of unusually hot conditions.

Which areas in the Eastern Cape will experience the heatwave?

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) expects persistently high temperatures in parts of the Chris Hani and Alfred Nzo district municipalities in the Eastern Cape.

The heatwave will continue until Sunday, 1 November 2026.

Residents in the affected areas can expect high temperatures throughout the weekend.

However, SAWS has not confirmed whether temperatures will ease on Monday.

How can residents stay safe during the heatwave?

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Residents can reduce their exposure to the heat by drinking water regularly, staying in shaded or cool places and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.

Older people, young children and people with existing health conditions may be particularly vulnerable to extreme heat.

People who work outdoors should also take regular breaks and drink enough water throughout the day.

What should residents watch out for?

Heat exhaustion can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, heavy sweating and weakness.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cooler place, rest and drink water if they are fully alert.

Symptoms can include confusion, collapse or loss of consciousness, and anyone showing these signs needs urgent medical attention.

Residents should monitor SAWS updates as the weekend progresses.