Jolam Nkhokwe, director of Climate Change and Meteorological Services said in a statement that people should also avoid excessive alcohol consumption, wear light clothing and walk in the shade.

Nkhokwe was speaking against a background of extreme hot weather which has hit countries across Southern Africa.

The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Climate Service Centre (CSC) said persistent temperatures in the range of 30 to 35 degrees Celsius were expected in the bulk of central SADC in the next five days.

The CSC said parts of the central SADC will experience temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius over a consecutive period of three days and occasions where temperatures have a high probability to exceed 40 degrees Celsius.

Citizens in these countries are being advised to adhere to all health advisories provided by local institutions to avoid heat-related health problems such as heat stroke.

MET says hot weather will continue in Malawi due to an influx of warm and dry north easterly airflow into Malawi.

Highest recorded temperatures have been recorded at Lengwe national park in Chikwawa, which peaked to 45 degrees Celsius.

Nsanje, Chikwawa and Bangula have also recorded 44 degrees Celsius.