Record-breaking heat expected across UK this week, says Met Office | UK weather
The Met Office has extended its extreme heat warning for the UK, predicting record-breaking temperatures of 38C (100.4F) this week.
The Met Office predicts that extremely high temperatures could last from Monday to Thursday, causing health problems for older and vulnerable people. The forecaster said there was “increasing confidence” that this week could break the record for the warmest June temperature of 35.6C, set in 1976 in Southampton and London’s Camden Square in June 1957.
“The predicted heatwave is shaping up to be an impactful and severe weather event in June, with record-breaking temperatures and very high humidity,” Met Office deputy head of forecasting Tom Crabtree said. “The combination of heat and humidity will be sweltering and will have impacts across society, from public health and infrastructure to electricity and water supplies.”
Night temperatures will also be very high, with widespread tropical nights where temperatures will not fall below 20C in southern parts of England and particularly in urban areas. Humidity is also a factor that makes this heat wave even more effective and makes heat stress a danger for everyone.
“This will make it very difficult for people to recover from the daytime heat and will further exacerbate the effects of heat stress,” Crabtree said. There is also an increase in potential water safety incidents as more people are expected to visit coastal areas, lakes or rivers.
Monday and Tuesday’s warning covers much of southern England, central and eastern Wales and much of the Midlands. The peak of the heatwave is forecast for Wednesday and Thursday, when temperatures are expected to rise to 38°C and the Met Office warning has extended to parts of Manchester, Yorkshire and Cheshire. Conditions will be less warm by Friday, with highs of 33C expected in eastern areas.
The Met Office said people in the warning area were advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun and avoid exercise between 11am and 3pm.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) has also published a range of yellow and amber colours. heat health warningsThey need to ensure health and social care services are prepared, he warns.
UKHSA Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection, Dr. Agostinho Sousa said: “Persistent hot weather can lead to serious health consequences, especially for older adults, and so it is important for everyone to take reasonable precautions when enjoying the sun.
“Simple steps like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest parts of the day, and keeping your home cool are some of the essential ways to keep yourself and others safe during hot weather.”
