Cape Town’s summer is one of the best times to experience the city, with long, sunny days ideal for beaches, hiking, sightseeing and outdoor adventures. As the warmer months approach, the Western Cape Government has highlighted the potential for higher temperatures, increased wildfire risk and pressure on water resources due to the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
Travellers should be prepared for hot, dry conditions as the province prepares for an El Niño state, with government officials saying it is expected to strengthen over the coming months. ENSO is a global climate cycle driven by changes in Pacific Ocean temperatures.
For visitors, El Niño might sound like a problem for meteorologists, but it is still worth taking a few sensible precautions when spending time outdoors.
Hotter Days, Drier Conditions
The Western Cape Government says climate modelling undertaken with the University of Cape Town points to more hot days, fewer cold days and more frequent and intense droughts, while a drier winter has also heightened concerns about fire risk.
Don’t Underestimate the Cape Town Sun
If you’re going to spend the day outside, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and something to cover exposed skin. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day, particularly after swimming, and seek shade when you can.
Hiking in the Heat? Start Early
Some of Cape Town’s most memorable experiences involve spending hours outdoors, but a trail that looks like a short outing on a map can mean prolonged sun exposure and limited shade. Start early where possible, carry enough water, and wear a hat and suitable clothing. Apply sunscreen before you leave rather than waiting until you’re halfway up the trail.
Conditions can change. Check the Cape Town weather before setting out and heed official warnings. If the heat becomes unbearable, you feel dizzy or unusually tired, or conditions deteriorate, turn around.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
When temperatures rise, don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Drink regularly throughout the day, especially if you’re hiking, sightseeing or doing anything strenuous. Build a few breaks into your plans, too. Find some shade, stop for a cold drink, and rest often. Keep an eye on children and older people and never leave a child or an animal in a parked car.
There is another reason to be mindful of water. Reduced rainfall and pressure on water resources mean that everyone has a role to play in using water responsibly.
Summer Fire Risk
The combination of heat, dry vegetation and strong winds can make the risk of wildfires in Cape Town serious in summer. The provincial government has identified increased fire risk as a concern following a drier winter.
If you’re heading into the mountains, nature reserves or other areas with dense vegetation, check the fire conditions before you go. Some rules are non-negotiable: don’t light fires where prohibited, use only designated braai areas, never leave a fire unattended, and dispose of cigarette ends properly.
Follow warnings and evacuation instructions from authorities.
Beach and Swimming Safety
Despite the attention given to heat and sun, Cape Town beach safety doesn’t stop at the shoreline. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) regularly warns beachgoers to take particular care around coastal and inland waters. The organisation encourages beachgoers to swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and to stay between the flags. Rip currents can be difficult to spot. They may appear as a calmer-looking section of water between breaking waves, but can pull swimmers away from the shore with considerable force.
If you find yourself caught in one, don’t try to fight it directly. Stay calm, float if necessary, and move sideways, parallel to the beach, until you’re out of the current, then make your way back towards the shore.
A few other things worth keeping in mind:
- Check the weather, wind and tides before heading to the coast.
- Keep children under the supervision of a responsible adult.
- Don’t swim after drinking alcohol.
- If you’re boating, paddling or sailing, wear a properly fitted life jacket.
- If you’re heading out on a boat or paddle craft, consider using the free NSRI SafeTrx app to track your journey and alert nominated contacts if you don’t return as planned.
