Temperatures hit 40ºC plus across Zululand
Many schools cancel sport events as heat sets in
AS predicted, today is an absolute scorcher – and even battle-hardened Zululanders are feeling the heat.
For the first time in many years weather stations around Zululand have all recorded temperatures at more than 40 degrees Celsius at some point, but mostly around midday.
This according to the Public Information Officer for the Richards Bay Clean Air Association, Sandy Camminga.
The following readings were shared with the ZO:
Arboretum – 41.8 ºC
Brackenham – 40.6 ºC
Richards Bay CBD – 40.2 ºC
Harbour – 40.7 ºC
eSikhaleni – 41.6 ºC
Mtunzini – 41.6 ºC
The highest temperature so far in Empangeni was just over 41 with a discomfort index level at 115 at midday and 111 at 2pm with 13% humidity, according to weather.com.
‘All sport has been cancelled. When the discomfort index is over 110 it’s hazardous to learners’ health and that’s when schools should cancel sport practices,’ said Empangeni High School’s assistant sport coordinator, Daniel Swanepoel.
Click here to read tips on how best to deal with extreme heat
‘Every day we monitor the levels and take it from there. Back in the day the Fire Department would call us with the figures, but they stopped that about three years ago.’
Felixton and St Catherine’s cancelled all sport, including a swimming gala meant to take place this afternoon at Empangeni’s public pool.
Grantleigh Schools cancelled their junior primary sport but will go ahead with their senior swimming gala at the school at 4pm.
Grantham Park Primary and Hoërskool Richardsbaai also cancelled all sport practices.
On Christmas Day in 2014 temperatures recorded in KwaDlangezwa near Empangeni hit 43.6 ºC, while Mtubatuba was at 43.2 ºC and Mtunzini 43 ºC. Richards Bay itself was 42.6 ºC and Mbazwane 41.6 ºC.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
