Southern Africa: Heatwave forecast across Botswana, Namibia, and central and northern South Africa through at least Feb. 26

Forecast models indicate that high temperatures will persist across parts of southern Africa through at least Feb. 26. The affected area includes much of Botswana, the interior of Nambia, and parts of central and northern South Africa. In spite of the high temperatures, localized showers and storms are possible in parts of the affected area over the coming days.

The Department of Meteorological Services in Botswana has issued a heatwave warning across the country through at least Feb. 26. Maximum temperatures of 36-42 C (97-108 F) are forecast over most parts of the country.

Namibia's Meteorological Service has issued an advisory warning that heatwave conditions are expected over interior parts of the country through at least Feb. 24. Maximums of around 34-39 C (93-102 F) are expected across much of the country over the coming days, with the exception of coastal regions.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued advisories due to high temperatures across North West, much of Free State, and eastern Northern Cape provinces through Feb. 24.

Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The extended period of very high temperatures and dry conditions may increase the potential for wildfires throughout the region. The high temperatures may result in drought conditions in the country. Authorities may implement water rationing, restricting water supply when necessary; they may also prohibit the use of potable water to irrigate green spaces or limit water withdrawal from wells, springs, or waterways.

Heatwaves pose a health threat to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses, due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. Some passengers may require hospitalization for dehydration due to the lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour.

Overheated vehicles could prompt traffic disruptions in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles and make tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.