As the UK prepares for a scorching heatwave with temperatures expected to reach 34°C or higher by Monday, the Met Office has issued an amber warning for extreme heat. The warning covers parts of East England, London, South East and South West England, and Wales, effective from 1am Monday until 11:59pm Tuesday. These regions are likely to experience adverse health effects due to the extreme conditions.
Heat Health Alerts in Place
Amber heat health alerts are currently in force for the East of England, London, South East, and South West of England, while yellow alerts cover the Midlands until 8pm on Tuesday. The Met Office predicts that parts of the South and South-east will meet heatwave criteria over the weekend, with temperatures hitting 32°C on Sunday and climbing to 34°C or beyond on Monday.
The warning highlights potential health impacts for vulnerable individuals and the wider population, as high humidity combined with high overnight temperatures can exacerbate health issues.
How to Stay Safe
To stay safe, the Met Office advises keeping out of the sun and avoiding exercise between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is strongest. Other recommendations include drinking plenty of fluids and keeping curtains closed in rooms that face the sun.
With hot and humid weather expected to persist into next week, people are urged to take care and be aware of the signs and symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Heatstroke: A Medical Emergency
Heatstroke is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. According to the NHS, symptoms include:
- A very high temperature
- Hot skin without sweating
- Fast breathing and a fast heartbeat
- Confusion and restlessness
- Seizures (fits)
- Loss of consciousness
If you or someone else experiences these symptoms and remains unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place, cooling down, and drinking fluids, call 999 immediately. While waiting for help, wrap the person in a cool, wet sheet, fan them, or sponge them down with cold water.
Heat Exhaustion: Recognize the Signs
Heat exhaustion is less severe than heatstroke and can be treated at home. Symptoms include:
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin (skin color changes may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- Cramps in the arms, legs, and stomach
- High temperature
- Thirst
- Irritability
If someone shows these signs, they need to cool down and drink fluids. Both conditions can be prevented by drinking plenty of cold drinks, avoiding the sun between 11am and 3pm, limiting alcohol, and avoiding extreme exercise. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and keep windows and curtains closed if it’s hotter outside than inside.
Forecaster’s Warning
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Greg Wolverson said: “While heatwave criteria will be met for some in the south and southeast of England over the weekend, with temperatures into the low 30s Celsius possible, the warmth will expand and intensify at the start of next week, which, coupled with high temperatures overnight, leads to potential impacts.
“Temperatures will peak around the mid-30s Celsius on Monday and Tuesday. The humidity will also mean this feels close, warmer and more uncomfortable for many. Tropical nights – where the temperature doesn’t drop below 20°C – are also likely for some.”
