Peter Matika, [email protected]
ZIMBABWE is experiencing a spell of intense October heat, with temperatures expected to continue rising across the country, prompting authorities to issue a three-day advisory and warn of increased risks to human health, crops and livestock.
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD), working with the Department of Civil Protection, had earlier warned of very hot conditions nationwide from October 18 to 20, with sunny skies and reduced cloud cover contributing to rising temperatures.
The Zambezi and Save valleys, which are among the country’s low-lying areas, are expected to experience particularly high temperatures.
Today and tomorrow, the MSD has projected clear skies and cool conditions in the morning, becoming warmer in the afternoon while urging members of the public to keep hydrated, limit exposure to direct sunlight and avoid outdoor fires.
The advisory, classified as Warning Level Zero, signals a high likelihood of very hot conditions but minimal overall impact, according to the MSD.
Temperature projections indicate increases of up to five degrees Celsius in some areas, while other parts of the country could experience rises of about three degrees Celsius.
MSD has warned that increased sunshine and higher daytime temperatures could cause excessive sweating and dehydration, urging the public to take precautions, including drinking water regularly, wearing light clothing and limiting strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours.
Commenting on these conditions, Bulawayo-based medical practitioner Dr Zivo Kuremba said people should take the warning seriously, particularly those at greater risk of heat-related illnesses.
“Children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable. Families should ensure they remain hydrated, stay in cool environments where possible and seek medical attention when they begin experiencing unusual symptoms,” he said.
Dr Kuremba said dehydration was among the earliest dangers associated with excessive heat, with symptoms including excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark-coloured urine, reduced urination, headaches, dizziness and unusual tiredness.
He said heat exhaustion could cause heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps, headaches and cold or clammy skin.
“Anyone experiencing these symptoms should stop physical activity, move into a shaded or cool environment, loosen tight clothing and take small sips of water if fully conscious,” he said.
Dr Kuremba advised people with medical conditions that require fluid restrictions to follow their healthcare providers’ guidance.
Another medical practitioner, Dr Dingunuzi Sithole, urged the public to make regular hydration a priority, particularly those whose work requires them to spend long periods outdoors.
“People should not wait until they feel thirsty before drinking water. They need to make a deliberate effort to drink regularly throughout the day, particularly during these hot conditions,” he said.
“Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can affect the body and lead to serious complications if warning signs are ignored.”
Dr Sithole said heatstroke was a medical emergency that required immediate intervention.
“Warning signs include confusion, seizures, fainting, loss of consciousness and dangerously elevated body temperature. Anyone suspected of suffering heatstroke should receive immediate medical assistance,” he said.
“While awaiting help, they should be moved to a cooler environment and rapidly cooled using water, wet cloths or cold packs. Fluids should not be given to someone unconscious or unable to swallow safely.”
Dr Sithole urged parents to limit children’s prolonged exposure to direct sunshine and called on public transport operators to ensure vehicles were adequately ventilated and not overcrowded.
Motorists were also warned against leaving children or animals unattended in parked vehicles, where temperatures can rise rapidly.
The MSD said the hot spell could also affect agricultural production, as increased water loss through transpiration may expose crops to heat stress.
Farmers were advised to monitor their crops and irrigate when signs of heat stress appeared,
following guidance from local Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) officers.
Livestock and domestic animals also require adequate drinking water throughout the day, while farmers were encouraged to provide shaded resting areas to limit prolonged exposure to direct sunshine.
Outdoor workers, including vendors and construction workers, were urged to take precautions against heat stress. Employers should provide sufficient drinking water, shaded resting areas and regular breaks, while physically demanding tasks should, where possible, be scheduled for early morning or late afternoon.
Vendors operating in open markets and along streets were encouraged to use umbrellas or other suitable coverings, wear light clothing and take breaks away from direct sunshine.
