Malawi swelters in record heat with temperatures nearly 20C above average

(The Guardian, 17 Oct 2023) Climate crisis blamed for extreme heat in African country, which has recorded temperatures of 43C – nearly double seasonal average.

Malawians endured the country’s hottest weekend on record, with temperatures reaching nearly double the seasonal average.

The heatwave began last Thursday with the government warning people to stay out of the sun, to keep hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Some school buildings in the south of the country were evacuated, and children were taught in the shade of playground trees.

By Saturday, parts of Malawi saw temperatures of 43C (109F), compared with an average of nearly 25C (77F) for the time of year. The temperatures had dropped by Monday, but in an advisory last week the country’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services warned of a “prolonged period of hot and uncomfortable weather” throughout October.

Kick-off for Malawi’s Super League football matches was delayed for 30 minutes in an attempt to avoid the worst of the heat. Players were encouraged to take regular water breaks during matches.

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The Guardian, 17 Oct 2023: Malawi swelters in record heat with temperatures nearly 20C above average