South Africa experienced an intense heatwave in November 2023, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in several parts of the country and more than 10 weather stations registering new November records.
The heatwave started on 19 November before reaching its highest intensity on 27 November, when Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape recorded a maximum temperature of 46.7°C.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed that the reading established a new November record for the station, surpassing the previous high of 46.2°C recorded on 28 November 2019.
More Than 10 Weather Stations Set New November Highs
The Northern Cape was among the areas most affected by the extreme temperatures, with the hot conditions also spreading into neighbouring parts of North West and the Free State.
Despite the new November record, Augrabies Falls did not reach its all-time temperature high. The station’s highest recorded maximum remains 48.6°C, measured on 5 January 2016.
Other locations also experienced record-breaking conditions. Richards Bay Airport recorded 40.5°C on 24 November, exceeding its previous November record of 39.5°C, which was set in 2008.
SAWS Explains What Drove the Heatwave
SAWS attributed the unusually high temperatures to a surface high-pressure system, supported by convergence in the upper atmosphere.
The weather service had issued warnings about the continued heat in several parts of the country as temperatures remained elevated.
With extreme conditions persisting, SAWS extended its heatwave advisory until 28 November.
Heatwave Reached Its Peak on 27 November
The November 2023 event brought several days of intense heat across South Africa, particularly in the country’s interior, where temperatures climbed above 40°C.
The heatwave’s progression from 19 November to its peak on 27 November prompted continued weather monitoring and advisories from SAWS.
