Dr Ranj Singh, appearing on BBC Morning Live, has warned that many people misunderstand when the hottest part of the day occurs during the current UK heatwave. He explained that while the sun is at its highest between 11am and 3pm, the heat peaks later, from 3pm to 5pm, due to buildings and roads absorbing heat and radiating it back out. He advised people to delay social activities until the evening when it is cooler.
Red Alert and Record Temperatures
The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency have issued a red weather warning for extreme heat covering an area from London to Swansea and Somerset to Birmingham, in effect from 9am Wednesday to 9pm Thursday. Temperatures could approach 40°C, potentially surpassing the June record of 35.6°C set in Hampshire in 1976.
Retail Surge
Retailers report soaring sales of cooling products. Currys saw a nearly 1,500% increase in searches for fans and a 3,500% increase for air conditioning products compared to the previous weekend. Lakeland reported electric fan sales up over 100% on the previous four weeks, cool bag sales up 262%, and ice cream maker sales up over 500% on some lines.
Advice for Vulnerable People
Dr Ranj emphasized checking on vulnerable individuals—the very young, elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions. He advised ensuring they have adequate supplies and highlighted the importance of breastfeeding babies more often. He distinguished between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, urging people to cool down rapidly and call 999 if heatstroke is suspected.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
- Cramps in arms, legs, and stomach
- High temperature
- Thirst
- Irritability
Symptoms of Heatstroke
- Very high temperature
- Hot skin without sweating
- Fast breathing and heartbeat
- Confusion and restlessness
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. The NHS website provides further information on signs to look out for.
