Extreme heat warning extended

Next week’s extreme heat warning has been extended from Sunday and Monday to include Tuesday (19 July) as well.

The Amber warning highlights likely adverse health effects for the public, not just limited to those most vulnerable to extreme heat.

Temperatures are likely to be in excess of 35°C, in southern, central and eastern areas of England, and more widely around 32°C within the warning area which includes the North West.

Tuesday currently looks to see the peak of this heat, although exceptional warmth is likely throughout the warning period. 

Temperatures are also set to remain high overnight, particularly in urban areas, with a high likelihood of tropical nights – when minimum temperatures don’t drop below 20°C – for some early next week.  

A Level 3 UK Health Security Agency Heat Health Alert, which is aimed at those specifically in the health and social care sector, has also been issued across England from Saturday to Tuesday, advising people to look out for vulnerable people and those with underlying health conditions.  

Heatwave criteria, when specific temperature thresholds must be exceeded three days running, had already been met in some locations earlier this week, and are expected to be met again by early next week.

This is most likely across England and Wales, but also fairly likely for eastern Scotland too. 

 

Top ways to stay safe when the heat arrives

Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk. 

If you live alone, ask a relative or friend to phone to check that you are not having difficulties during periods of extreme heat. 

Stay cool indoors: Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors. 

If going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately.  

Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.  

Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.

Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest. 

Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat. 

Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day. 

Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling. 

Check the latest weather forecast and temperature warnings.

During warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief. If you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice. 

 

Warm summer conditions will remain in place for much of the week for the majority of England and Wales, albeit slightly less hot on Thursday, when temperatures are more likely to peak in the mid-20s Celsius for many.  

High pressure near the southern half of the UK is responsible for this week’s warm spell and builds back into the UK for Thursday, bringing largely dry and clear weather for many for the rest of this week.

During the weekend, a developing southerly flow will allow very high temperatures currently building over the continent to start to spread northwards into the UK.

Further north, eastern areas of Scotland could see temperatures in excess of 25°C in a few places, well above their average for the time of year.  

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “Heat-health alerts have now been issued to the majority of the country, with temperatures set to remain consistently high throughout the duration of this week. 

“Most of us can enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but it is important to keep yourself hydrated and to find shade where possible when UV rays are strongest, between 11am and 3pm. 

“If you have vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, make sure they are aware of how they can keep themselves protected from the warm weather.’’  

999 services should be used in emergencies only; seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.