‘Super’ El Niño warning | 8 ways extreme heat could hit your pocket

South Africans could face more than scorching temperatures this summer, as a potentially powerful El Niño event raises concerns about costly damage to homes, vehicles and household equipment.

The phenomenon is expected to intensify towards the end of 2026 and into early 2027, with temperatures potentially reaching one and three degrees Celsius above average in parts of the country. This could increase the risk of heatwaves, prolonged drought and devastating veld fires.

Momentum Insure chief actuary, Rudolf Britz, warns that while the full impact remains uncertain, prolonged heat and sudden weather changes could drive up insurance claims involving motor vehicles, buildings and household contents.

Britz has advised homeowners to inspect their roofs and seal visible gaps before the rains arrive to avoid costly leaks and repairs. He says prolonged heat causes roofing materials to expand and contract, potentially cracking tiles, weakening seals and damaging waterproofing. 

Solar power systems could also take a hit. Britz says high temperatures can reduce solar panel efficiency and cause inverters and batteries to overheat, potentially triggering automatic shutdowns. Keeping panels clean and ensuring batteries have adequate ventilation can help reduce the risk.

Outdoor geysers and those in poorly insulated roof spaces are also vulnerable, as sustained heat can put additional strain on components, potentially contributing to leaks or equipment failure. Britz says proper insulation and regular maintenance can help protect these systems.

Swimming pools could become another unexpected expense, with extreme heat accelerating water evaporation and encouraging algae growth. If water levels fall below the weir gate, pumps can draw in air and run dry, potentially burning out their motors. Regularly checking water levels and maintaining pool equipment can help prevent costly damage.

Meanwhile, Britz warns that increased reliance on air conditioners and fans during heatwaves could place additional strain on household electrical circuits. Overloaded circuits can overheat or trip, making safe electricity use and regular appliance maintenance particularly important.

Britz says motorists are not off the hook either. He warns that high temperatures and hot road surfaces can worsen tyre wear, while worn or underinflated tyres increase the risk of a blowout. Drivers are advised to check tyre pressure when tyres are cool and ensure their tread depth is adequate.

Motorists are not off the hook either. Britz warns that high temperatures and hot road surfaces can worsen tyre wear, while worn or underinflated tyres increase the risk of a blowout. Drivers are advised to check tyre pressure when tyres are cool and ensure their tyres have adequate tread depth.

He says extreme heat can also shorten car battery life by accelerating chemical reactions and contributing to fluid loss, corrosion and premature failure. Britz recommends testing batteries before the peak summer period to help reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

One of the biggest concerns is the increased risk of veld fires during prolonged hot and dry spells. Dry vegetation can fuel fires, while wind-driven embers may threaten nearby homes. Britz says clearing dry brush, maintaining firebreaks where appropriate and removing flammable debris from gutters can help reduce the danger.

The warnings come as the UN’s World Meteorological Organisation cautions that strong El Niño conditions can raise global temperatures and disrupt rainfall patterns, increasing the risk of drought in some regions and flooding in others.

International Monetary Fund chief, Kristalina Georgieva, has voiced concern about the phenomenon’s potential impact on food security, while the United Nations Development Programme has warned that the combined effects of rising energy prices, borrowing costs and severe weather could push millions of people back into poverty.

Meanwhile, Britz is urging homeowners to review their insurance policies, warning that rising building and replacement costs could leave properties underinsured if their cover no longer reflects the cost of replacing damaged assets.

He adds that preventative maintenance and timely repairs could help households avoid turning extreme weather into an expensive financial setback.

El Niño will continue to intensify ahead of its forecast peak in December. Sea-surface temperatures in central & eastern tropical Pacific are set to increase to record levels. Above-average temperatures globally & shift in rainfall patterns are likely.
↪️ https://t.co/RkalrbYa4Q https://t.co/JkXBOhtYD7

— World Meteorological Organization (@WMO) October 8, 2026

🌡️ What have you heard about El Niño? 50°C temperatures?

El Niño is a natural climate pattern that can influence temperatures and rainfall. In South Africa, it is generally associated with hotter and drier conditions, although its impacts can vary from one season and region to another.

So, does El Niño automatically mean 50°C temperatures? Not necessarily. 🥵

#ElNino #WeatherReady #SAWeather #GovZAUpdates

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) September 1, 2026