By Sabri Dibaco
The South Sudan Meteorological Service has issued a heat-stress alert for Friday, October 2, warning that most counties across the country could experience heat-stress conditions.
The forecast indicates extreme caution conditions in several areas, with temperatures expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in parts of Northern and Eastern South Sudan.
Areas expected to experience the highest temperatures include Northern Raja, Aweil North, Aweil East, Gogrial West and East, Twic, Tonj North, Abyei Administrative Area, Pariang, Abiemnhom, Rubkona, Guit, Panyikang, Fangak, Melut, Manyo, Renk, Baliet, Naser, Ayod, Duk, Uror, Akobo, Twic East, Yirol East, and Bor South.
The Meteorological Service says other parts of the country are expected to experience comparatively lower levels of heat stress.
Residents are being advised to take precautions against excessive heat, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.
The public is encouraged to drink water regularly, even when not thirsty, limit prolonged exposure to high temperatures, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities where possible.
People who must work or remain outdoors are advised to take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, including hats or other protection from direct sunlight.
The Meteorological Service has also urged communities to pay particular attention to children, older people, pregnant women, and people with existing health conditions, who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.
The heat-stress alert comes as South Sudan continues to experience high temperatures in several parts of the country, making access to timely weather information important for communities, outdoor workers, and local authorities.