Gauteng heatwave until Friday: up to 36°C in Joburg and Pretoria
Gauteng's second heatwave of the year runs from Wednesday afternoon to Friday, with highs of up to 36°C. North West, the Free State and parts of the Northern Cape are also under warning.
Gauteng's second heatwave of the year starts on Wednesday afternoon, 11 November 2026, and is expected to last until Friday. The SA Weather Service (SAWS) says temperatures could reach 36°C in parts of the province, including Johannesburg and Pretoria (eNCA, SABC News).
The heatwave warning also covers most of North West and the Free State (except the south-west) and the north-east of the Northern Cape, with persistently high temperatures until Friday (The Citizen, citing SAWS).
Which areas are under the heatwave warning?
| Area | Warning | Until |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Gauteng, with highs of up to 36°C in places including Johannesburg and Pretoria | Heatwave | Friday 13 November |
| North West | Heatwave | Friday 13 November |
| Free State, except the south-west | Heatwave | Friday 13 November |
| North-eastern Northern Cape | Heatwave | Friday 13 November |
Sources: The Citizen, citing SAWS, SABC News. Check SAWS warnings for updates, as warning areas can change during the day.
Is there also a fire warning?
Yes. SAWS has warned of extremely high fire danger in the Northern Cape, the eastern parts of North West and the Free State, the north-east of the Western Cape, parts of the south-western Bushveld in Limpopo, and the Dr Beyers Naudé, Inxuba Yethemba and Walter Sisulu local municipalities in the Eastern Cape (The Citizen).
In those areas, a small fire can spread fast. Don't burn rubbish or veld, and report smoke or unattended fires to emergency services.
How do I stay safe in the heat?
Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) says it is on high alert. Spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi urged residents to drink plenty of water and stay out of direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm (SABC News).
People who work outside should take regular breaks, because the heat can cause heat exhaustion and cramps that may lead to heat stroke. EMS also asked parents to keep young children away from dams and rivers to prevent drownings (SABC News).
The UV index in Gauteng is expected to be very high on Wednesday, so cover up and use sunscreen if you're outdoors (The Citizen).
When will it cool down?
Some relief could come from Friday, when showers and thunderstorms are forecast for Gauteng (eNCA). SAWS expects isolated showers over the eastern parts of the country on Thursday, with fine and warm to hot weather elsewhere (The Citizen).
FAQ
How long will the Gauteng heatwave last?
SAWS expects it to start on Wednesday afternoon, 11 November 2026, and last until Friday, 13 November.
How hot will it get in Johannesburg and Pretoria?
SAWS says temperatures could reach up to 36°C in parts of Gauteng, including Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Which other provinces are under the heatwave warning?
North West, most of the Free State (except the south-west) and the north-eastern Northern Cape.
When will it cool down in Gauteng?
Showers and thunderstorms are forecast from Friday, which could bring some relief.