Heatwave temperatures have today been forecast for almost all parts of England, prompting warnings from Public Health England.
The Met Office has forecast that heatwave conditions may hit by lunchtime today in London (Monday, July 18).
Dr Yvonne Doyle, regional director of PHE London said:
“Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and for most people there’s nothing to really worry about.
“But for some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and those with young children, summer heat can bring real health risks.
“This summer we’re urging people to keep an eye on those at-risk and if you’re able, offer help to stay cool and hydrated. This is a good time, before the warmer weather arrives, to think about who you may be able to assist and what you may be able to do – there’s lots of guidance on the NHS Choices and more detail in the Heatwave Plan for England.”
The Met Office declared a Level 2 heat-health alert this morning – that means that there is a high chance that temperatures will hit certain thresholds for two days and the intervening night.
Paul Gundersen, Chief Operational Meteorologist said:
“High pressure, warm air and light winds will result in widespread very warm conditions today (Monday), becoming locally hot, with isolated thunderstorms developing, these most likely across northern England. Tonight temperatures fall a little, but then through tomorrow temperatures rise again as very warm air pushes north from across the Continent. This will lead to widespread hot conditions, with increasing humidity as well. The very warm and humid weather will continue through Tuesday evening and much of Wednesday leading to a hot and humid night. Meanwhile, intense thunderstorms may develop, these most likely across northern England.
News Release
“On Wednesday fresher conditions gradually arrive from the west across England,
clearing away the thunderstorms eastwards.”
Top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives:
look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and
those with underlying health conditions
drink plenty of water – sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you
more dehydrated
close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and
remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
open windows when it feels cooler outside and it’s safe to do so
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
if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear
a hat
avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
Dr Doyle said:
“The hot weather won’t make life difficult for all of us, indeed many of us will make the
most of it when the sun shines. But some people may not be able to adapt to the extra
strain hot weather will put on their bodies and may feel the ill-effects.
“Each year we hear stories of people who have fallen seriously ill because, even
though it’s hotter they may wear clothes which are too warm for hot weather, they may
not drink enough or just try to do too much.
“By looking out for each other this summer we, health professionals, councils and the
public, can all help each other stay well this summer.”
