Doctors have urged the public to exercise caution as daytime temperatures rise across the country, after authorities issued a three-day advisory warning of risks to health, crops and livestock.
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD), working with the Department of Civil Protection, warned of very hot conditions nationwide from 18 to 20 October, with sunny skies and reduced cloud cover pushing temperatures up.
The Zambezi and Save valleys, which are low-lying, are expected to be particularly hot.
The department said increased sunshine and higher daytime temperatures could cause excessive sweating and dehydration. It advised people to drink water regularly, wear light clothing and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours.
According to international forecasters, daytime temperatures in Zimbabwe are expected to rise further until Friday before easing slightly over the weekend.
Bulawayo-based doctor Zivo Kuremba said the warning should be taken seriously, especially by those most at risk.
“Children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable,” he said.
“Families should ensure they remain hydrated, stay in cool environments where possible and seek medical attention when they begin experiencing unusual symptoms.”
He said dehydration is often the first danger, with signs including excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark-coloured urine, reduced urination, headache, dizziness and unusual tiredness.
Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache and cold or clammy skin.
“Anyone experiencing these symptoms should stop physical activity, move into a shaded or cool environment, loosen tight clothing and take small sips of water if fully conscious,” Kuremba said.
He added that people with medical conditions that require fluid restriction should follow their doctor’s advice.
Another practitioner, Dr Dingunuzi Sithole, said people should not wait until they feel thirsty to drink water, especially those who work outdoors for long periods.
“People should make a deliberate effort to drink regularly throughout the day, particularly during these hot conditions,” he said.
“Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can affect the body and lead to serious complications if warning signs are ignored.”
He said heatstroke is a medical emergency that needs immediate help, with warning signs including confusion, seizures, fainting, loss of consciousness and dangerously high body temperature.
“Anyone suspected of suffering heatstroke should receive immediate medical assistance,” he said. “While awaiting help, they should be moved to a cooler environment and rapidly cooled using water, wet cloths or cold packs. Fluids should not be given to someone unconscious or unable to swallow safely.”
Sithole urged parents to limit children’s prolonged exposure to direct sunshine and called on public transport operators to ensure vehicles are properly ventilated and not overcrowded.
Motorists were also warned not to leave children or animals unattended in parked vehicles, where temperatures can rise rapidly.
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