The Northern Cape will experience a warming trend throughout the week, with temperatures steadily rising from the mid-20s°C to nearly 37°C by the weekend. The rapid increase in temperatures may cause heat stress for those who are not adequately prepared.
THE NORTHERN Cape will experience a warming trend throughout the week, with temperatures steadily rising from the mid-20s°C to nearly 37°C by the weekend. The region will see mostly dry and sunny conditions, accompanied by low humidity levels, which are typical for this time of year. However, the rapid increase in temperatures may cause heat stress for those who are not adequately prepared.
The UV index will remain consistently high, making sun protection essential for outdoor activities. Additionally, the extended dry spell and low humidity increase the risk of wildfires. Currently, there are fire danger warnings for parts of the Northern Cape. The South African Weather Service has flagged regions in the central and northern parts of the Province, where conditions are conducive to runaway fires. Winds are expected to be gusty in some areas, further elevating the risk of fire spread.
These warnings are likely to persist as temperatures rise throughout the week. If you are in or near fire-prone areas, it’s advisable to avoid activities that could spark fires and stay updated on local advisories. Authorities may issue additional warnings as the weather develops.
A LOOK AHEAD
Monday, October 28
Expect mostly cloudy conditions with high temperatures around 20°C and lows near 6°C. Humidity will be moderate at 43%, with a gentle westerly wind averaging 26km/h. The day will remain dry, with a minimal chance of precipitation. The cloud cover will dominate throughout the day, though some breaks in the clouds might occur by evening.
Tuesday, October 29
Sunny weather will return, with a noticeable warm-up. The high will reach 27°C and the low will be about 10°C. Winds will be lighter at 16km/h from the west. The humidity will drop to around 28%, making the day feel much drier than Monday. The UV index will be very high, so sunscreen and protective clothing are recommended for prolonged outdoor activities.
Wednesday, October 30
Temperatures will climb further, reaching a high of 32°C and a low of 12°C. The day will be sunny with almost no cloud cover. Winds will be quite calm at around 8km/h, providing little relief from the heat. With the UV index remaining very high, precautions against sun exposure will be necessary. Humidity levels will drop further to around 17%.
Thursday, October 31
The heat will intensify, with highs reaching 36°C and lows near 16°C. The day will be mostly sunny, although some light clouds may appear in the afternoon. Winds will increase to about 16 km/h from the south-west, offering minimal cooling. The air will remain dry, with humidity levels dropping below 10%, contributing to an increased fire danger across the region.
Friday, November 1
Expect similar conditions, with highs nearing 37°C and lows around 18°C. The day will start sunny, but some clouds may build up by the afternoon. Winds will shift slightly to come from the west-north-west at 19km/h. Humidity will stay low at around 9%, maintaining dry and potentially dusty conditions. No rain is expected during this period, and the fire danger remains high.
KIMBERLEY AND UPINGTON
Kimberley and Upington are set to experience a classic blend of Northern Cape heat with some windy spells, mostly clear skies, and dry conditions overall.
In Kimberley, temperatures will start off at around 22°C on Monday, climbing as the week progresses. By Friday, temperatures are expected to hit 36°C, soaring further over the weekend to a high of 38°C on Saturday, continuing that trend into the next week.
Winds will stay mild to moderate, varying between 15 and 2 km/h, with north-north-westerly breezes gaining strength toward the weekend. Although clouds may roll in midweek, rain is unlikely, with skies remaining largely clear.
Upington will mirror Kimberley’s warming trend, but with even hotter peaks as temperatures rise. Monday will start at around 28°C, building to 38°C by Friday and cresting to a scorching 40°C on Sunday.
Winds in Upington will be stronger, reaching speeds of up to 40km/h on Friday and Saturday, amplifying the hot, dry conditions typical of the Northern Cape. Rainfall remains improbable throughout the week, so clear skies will dominate.
Both cities are in for a warm weekend with clear skies and steady winds, ideal for outdoor activities but be sure to stay hydrated and take sun precautions.
Staff reporter
www.dfa.co.za
