Malawians are on high alert as they face the looming threat of an extreme heatwave, set to push temperatures to a scorching 44°C.
Authorities urge citizens to exercise caution, avoiding alcohol and caffeine as these beverages can lead to dehydration in such extreme conditions.
The country’s meteorological service has issued a warning, indicating that, while high temperatures are not uncommon for October, they are expected to become both more frequent and severe due to climate change impacts.
This situation mirrors intense heatwaves witnessed in North Africa, Europe, the United States, and Mexico in July. Climate experts predict that 2023 will be a record-setting year for warmth due to ongoing emissions of warming gases and El Niño weather events.
Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has released an advisory, cautioning citizens to prepare for an extended period of sweltering and uncomfortable weather, forecasted to persist until Saturday.
The projected maximum temperatures are a scorching 44°C in the southern Shire Valley and 40°C in northern areas along Lake Malawi.
Yobu Kachiwanda, Malawi’s chief meteorologist, explained that a continual daily temperature rise is responsible for this exceptional heatwave, attributing it to direct heat energy from the sun positioned directly above Malawi.
Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are at significant risk of heat-related illnesses when exposed to such extreme conditions over an extended period. The weather bureau has highlighted concerns about conditions like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.