Gauteng heatwave warning: Temperatures to hit 35°C

Gauteng urged to take precautions as heatwave raises temperatures

Gauteng residents have been urged to take precautions after the province experienced its first official heatwave of the 2026/27 summer season. The surge in temperatures began on Friday and is expected to persist through Monday, with forecasts showing conditions will intensify on Sunday.

Where it will be hottest

Pretoria is forecast to be the hottest city in the province, reaching 35°C. Johannesburg was expected to reach 33°C, while Vereeniging was forecast at 32°C, according to Gauteng Weather.

The heat is not limited to Gauteng alone: a persistent spell of high temperatures was also expected across parts of the Mpumalanga Highveld, the southern Mpumalanga Lowveld and the south-western bushveld of Limpopo.

Health risks and who is most vulnerable

Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Children, the elderly and people with underlying health conditions are highlighted as particularly vulnerable to these effects.

Those risks can grow when people are exposed to heat for long periods or perform strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. The current heatwave was described in forecasts as one of the hottest spells in Gauteng since the start of spring and is expected to place extra pressure on outdoor workers, commuters and those taking part in sporting activities.

Practical precautions for residents

Officials and health advisers are encouraging a range of practical steps to reduce heat-related harm. The following precautions were recommended in public guidance:

• Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid drinks that can contribute to dehydration, including alcohol and excessive coffee.
• Adjust meals: eat cold, light meals and avoid spicy foods where possible.
• Limit outdoor activity: avoid strenuous tasks during the hottest parts of the day and seek shade or shelter when possible.
• Protect yourself from the sun: wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
• Cool indoor spaces: take cold showers and ensure homes and workplaces are adequately ventilated.

Advice for pet owners and specific groups

Pet owners were urged to take extra care, ensuring animals have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water. The same general principles apply to those who care for children, the elderly or people with chronic health conditions: reduce exposure during peak heat and maintain hydration.

What forecasters say next

Gauteng Weather forecast the heatwave to intensify on Sunday before temperatures begin to ease after Monday. Residents were advised to monitor weather updates and follow the recommended precautions while temperatures remain well above seasonal averages in many areas.

Why this matters locally

Beyond immediate health concerns, prolonged high temperatures can affect daily life from increasing strain on people working outdoors to making commuting and recreational activities more taxing. Public guidance aims to reduce avoidable incidents and protect the most vulnerable while the heatwave persists.

Stay informed

With forecasts indicating the heatwave will continue through Monday, residents are encouraged to keep an eye on local weather information and observe the basic protective measures outlined by health advisers and weather authorities.