Amber heatwave warning extended as Met Office prediction of 35C raises health fears
AN amber heatwave warning has been extended as the Met Office predicts temperatures could rise to 35C this week.
The warning took hold from midday today and will be in place through to 11pm on Sunday, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.
The UKHSA extended the warning this afternoon after it had originally been in place until Saturday.
While temperatures won’t reach the record highs seen last month, medics are still urging people to heed caution in the hot weather.
It was also revealed today that Thames Water could announce a hose-pipe ban in the coming weeks in the face of long periods of hot weather.
The Met Office warned that there are some warm nights on the horizon.
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Official guidance states that some parts will see temperatures in the low 30s with many places being in the high 20s.
Met Office chiefs said temperatures could peak at 35C, or even an isolated 36C in some areas on Saturday.
The level 3 heat-health alert applies to all of England, but isn’t as severe as last month’s level 4 alert.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA said temperatures will feel warm again this week, particularly in southern and central parts of the country.
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“We want everyone to enjoy the warm weather safely when it arrives but remember that heat can have a fast impact on health.
“It’s important to ensure that people who are more vulnerable – elderly people who live alone and people with underlying health conditions – are prepared for coping during the hot weather.
“The most important advice is to ensure they stay hydrated, keep cool and take steps to prevent their homes from overheating,” Dr Sousa added.
The experts at the UKHSA said that high temperatures also present a risk to wildfire – especially after long, dry periods.
They added that people with pre-existing heart and lung conditions such as asthma are most susceptible as breathing wildfire smoke may worsen their symptoms.
Children and older people may also be susceptible to health impacts, experts warned.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Tony Wardle, said: “Heatwave criteria look likely to be met for large areas of the UK later this week, with the hottest areas expected in central and southern England and Wales on Friday and Saturday.
“Temperatures could peak at 35C, or even an isolated 36C on Saturday.
“Coupled with the high daytime temperatures will be continued warm nights, with the mercury expected to drop to only around low 20s Celsius for some areas in the south.”
Medics state that during periods of hot weather, it’s key to look out for yourself and those around you.
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Guidance states that you should always travel with water and avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day, between 11am and 3pm.
You should also drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol and wear sunscreen if you have to go out in the heat.