Cape Town Activates Heatwave Plan Amid Record Temperatures Expected This Week

Published 10 Mar 2026 at 10:24 AM

by Tebogo Mokwena

4 min read

The City of Cape Town is ready to activate its heatwave hazard-specific plan in preparation for the upcoming heatwave
The South African Weather Service warned that temperatures in the Western Cape are expected to soar beyond 35 degrees and will last for the duration of the week
The City spoke to Briefly News and discussed the measures it would take to keep citizens safe

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For seven years, Tebogo Mokwena, hazard-specific Deputy Head of Current Affairs, South Africa, covered a range of topics, including accidents, fires, outbreaks, nature, weather, and natural disaster-related incidents, at Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News.

The City of Cape Town discussed how it will prepare for the heatwave that will hit the Western Cape — Capetonians have been given tips on how to survive the heatwave. Images: Johannes Mann and FG Trade
Source: Getty Images

CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE — The City of Cape Town told Briefly News that the Disaster Coordinating Committee and the Emergency Medical Services are ready to respond to any emergencies arising from the heatwave that is expected to persist until the end of the week. This was after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned that parts of the Northern Cape and much of the Western Cape would experience an intense heatwave.

Swimming pool hours to be extended

The City also informed Briefly News that swimming pools will be operating for longer hours due to the heatwave. The City’s Recreation and Parks Department said that it is currently piloting extended hours at community swimming pools, which sees 30 of these facilities operational between Wednesdays and Sundays until 18:00.

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“There is also the Sea Point swimming pool and three indoor facilities in Long Street, Strand, and Blue Downs that are open seven days a week. The fourth indoor facility in Retreat is currently closed for repairs. The City also has lifeguards on duty at 29 designated bathing areas, until 18:000 daily,” the City added.

The Cape Town government has informed its residents to remain hydrated during the heatwave — Temperatures are expected to hit the ceiling in Cape Town. Image: Uma Shankar sharma
Source: Getty Images

Cape Town’s MMC for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, told Briefly News that residents are urged to remain hydrated during soaring temperatures this week and use water for essential purposes. Residents have also been encouraged to keep up the good work of water savings. Badroodien also urged responsible water usage in light of the unpredictable rainfall the country and province have been experiencing recently.

Tips for residents to survive the heatwave

The City’s Chief Heat Officer, Albert Ferreira, told Briefly News that residents have been urged to drink plenty of cold water and use spray bottles or wet cloths to cool down. Residents have also been advised to limit outdoor activities and strenuous exercise between 11:00 and 17:00, which is usually the hottest part of the day.

“Be conscious of the increased risk of wildfire in hot, dry, and windy conditions and ensure that any fires, such as braais or cooking fires, are properly extinguished. Avoid making fires outside during windy conditions, and never throw cigarette ends from your vehicle,” he added.

Ferreira also encouraged residents to look out for family, friends, and neighbours, especially the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses.

KwaZulu-Natal hit by high temperatures

In a related article, Briefly News reported that parts of KwaZulu-Natal experienced high temperatures in early February 2026. The temperatures persisted until the second week of the month.