Malawi Thursday started experiencing what the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has described as a heatwave, with temperatures expected to hit a peak of 44 degrees Celsius.
The department indicates that the heatwave is expected to persist up to tomorrow.
Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services Principal Meteorologist responsible for Public Weather Services Yobu Kachiwanda indicates, in a statement, that the country is expected to experience a continuous rise in temperatures that will culminate in a heatwave.
“The projected maximum temperature in the Southern Shire Valley is 44 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius in Northern areas along Lake Malawi. A prolonged period of hot and uncomfortable weather is expected until Saturday,” Kachiwanda said.
He said the high temperatures are due to direct heat energy from the sun, which is apparently overhead in Malawi.
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The department has since advised citizens to take care of the elderly, children and those with pre-existing health conditions who are at risk of suffering serious health complications if exposed to extreme heat for a long period of time.
Forestry and Climate Change Minister Michael Usi Thursday said it is the responsibility of every citizen to adhere to updates from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services.
“Climate change is real; let’s follow the advice that the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has given: drink enough water even if you do not feel thirsty,” Usi said.
He said one of the consequences of climate change is a heatwave.
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In July this year, heatwaves also hit parts of North Africa, Europe, the United States and Mexico.
Meteorological experts indicate that 2023 is likely to be the warmest year on record due to ongoing emissions of warming gases and El Niño weather events.
Between October and November 2019, a heatwave also hit some parts of the Southern African Development Community and killed at least one person in Botswana.
At that time, temperatures rose above 40 degrees Celsius, with Botswana and Zimbabwe recording elephant deaths in relation to heatwaves and drought.
Recently, the department’s chief Lucy Mtilatila said timely provision of weather information is key to averting disasters.
