A heatwave is forecast to persist in parts of north-western KwaZulu-Natal until Tuesday, October 13, 2026, with warm to hot conditions prevailing across KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and North West. The weather service has issued advisories for residents in affected areas to stay hydrated and limit exposure during peak heat periods.
In KwaZulu-Natal, residents can expect morning fog over the northern interior, transitioning to partly cloudy skies with warm to hot temperatures. Isolated showers and thundershowers may occur in certain southern and western regions. Coastal areas will experience moderate to fresh northerly to north-easterly winds, and the UVB sunburn index is expected to be very high, posing a significant risk of sunburn for those exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Durban is predicted to have partly cloudy weather with moderate to fresh northerly to north-easterly winds, and temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C. Residents and visitors are urged to take precautions against the strong UV radiation.
The Free State will also see partly cloudy and warm conditions, with isolated showers and thundershowers possible in the southwestern parts of the province. In Bloemfontein, skies will remain partly cloudy, though specific temperature forecasts were not provided.
In North West, the forecast includes partly cloudy and warm conditions. Mahikeng, in particular, is expected to reach a maximum temperature of 30°C, though the minimum temperature remains unspecified.
Authorities recommend that residents in regions impacted by the heatwave take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and protecting themselves against excessive sun exposure.