Heatwaves are increasingly becoming common in South Sudan, although temperatures rarely exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
A statement released over the weekend by South Sudanese authorities said the nation would experience “high temperatures of 41-45C,” adding that this was expected to last “at least two weeks.”
“There are already cases of death related to excessive heat being reported,” read the joint statement released by the ministries of education, health, and environment.
South Sudanese authorities followed up on their statement by closing schools and urging parents to “stop their children from playing outdoors.” They also called on people to watch out for heatstroke.
Despite the advisories issued by authorities, some South Sudanese workers remain adamant about reporting for duty.
Sworo Ben operates a boda boda - a motorcycle used to transport people. He says the heat is making his work difficult.
“We survive through boda boda,” Ben told VOA, adding, “we just try our best. If the sun heat is very hot at times we just go and rest because it is not easy, and you cannot work without a helmet.”
The heatwave has pushed South Sudanese traffic police officers to work “from morning until midday,” according to Rose Meseika, an officer in Gudele.
Meseika says officers are spending approximately 1,000 South Sudanese pounds (approximately $10) on drinking water.
“In case you keep standing under the sun and you manage to get 5,000 SSP the money will be spent on water,” she said.
The heat also has affected entrepreneurs in South Sudan.
Emmanuel Dumo, a beverage wholesaler in the East African nation, says the heatwave could damage his perishable goods. He also is experiencing a loss of customers.
“This thing (goods) can expire though the expiry date is indicated there, but because of the sunshine it will not take long for it to be spoiled,” he told VOA.
While Dumo reported a loss, Chol Chol Bol, an ice cream seller said he is making a profit.
Ice cream sellers are excited to be making money to support their families, Bol said, adding, “with this money we used to go to the market even though the weather is very hot.”
According to the U.S.'s Centers for Disease Control, CDC, the symptoms of heatstroke include a high body temperature over 39 degrees, a fast pulse, nausea, confusion and passing out.
To help someone who may be overheated, take them to a cool place, cool their body with wet cloths and a cold bath, and to take them for medical care quickly, the CDC says.
Some information for this article was sourced from Agence France-Presse. VOA reporter Denis Logonyi contributed to this report.
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