Several weather stations across the Western Cape and Namakwa District have broken long-standing March temperature records as an intense heatwave sweeps the region, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed.
SAWS reported that multiple stations recorded their highest March temperatures in over a decade due to a persistent high-pressure system dominating the province.
“The presence of a strong, slow-moving high-pressure weather system in the upper atmosphere has resulted in extremely hot conditions,” SAWS said.
Preliminary data shows that Alexander Bay in the Namakwa District hit 44.8°C, surpassing the previous March record of 43.4°C set nine years ago. Garies followed with a new high of 43.5°C, breaking its earlier mark of 42.9°C.
In the Cape Metropole, Cape Town City reached 42.1°C, exceeding the previous March record of 39.8°C. Other stations reporting new highs include Kirstenbosch (42.1°C), Worcester (42.7°C), Ceres (41.3°C), and Cape Point (40.0°C).
SAWS emphasised that these temperatures surpass those recorded during a similar extreme heat event on 3 March 2015.
However, the previously reported 46.6°C at the Royal Cape Yacht Club has been excluded from official records, as the sensor does not meet World Meteorological Organization standards.
Forecast models suggest relief is on the way.
The high-pressure system is expected to weaken later this week, with a gradual cooling trend along the coast by Friday, March 13, and more seasonal temperatures by Saturday, March 14.
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za