Malawi warns of 44 degree Celsius heat

Malawi is about to have a heat wave at its peak, around 44 degrees Celsius. (Source: Malawi 24)

Authorities are urging people to be cautious by avoiding alcohol and caffeine as these drinks can lead to dehydration in such harsh conditions.

The country's meteorological agency warned that although high temperatures are not uncommon in October, heat waves are expected to become more frequent and severe due to the impact of climate change.

The dire situation mirrors the intense heat waves that have gripped parts of North Africa, Europe, the United States and Mexico in July.

Climate experts are sounding the alarm for 2023, predicting it will be a record-breaking year for temperatures.

The unwelcome milestone is attributed to rising global warming emissions and the effects of El Niño weather phenomena.

The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services in Malawi has issued advice, warning people to prepare for prolonged hot and uncomfortable weather, which is forecast to last until the end of this week.

Maximum temperatures are expected to reach 44°C in the southern Shire Valley and 40°C in northern areas along Lake Malawi.