29/06/2009
GB Sweats As NI Heads For Downpours
Despite earlier hopes that Northern Ireland was 'set fair' for this coming week with temperatures predicted to reach at least 27C by Tuesday, it looks instead like heavy rain is on the way.
As the rest of the British Isles is to have a week-long heat wave, sun worshippers in Northern Ireland shouldn't get too excited as the forecast is for heavy downpours and thunderstorms over the next five days.
Forecasters said that while temperatures between 22C and 24C are likely throughout this week, torrential rain and cloudy skies will mar the above average temperatures.
The news comes 'hot-on-the-heels' of a national heat wave alert. It was issued by the Department of Health on Friday with warnings that extreme temperatures will be reached in the capital over the coming days.
Temperatures in London are set to reach 32C on Monday and Tuesday, according to the Met Office.
It has predicted that around the country daytime temperatures could reach 29-30C, with minimum night-time temperatures of 15-18C.
Speaking on Friday, the Head of Health Forecasting at the Met Office, Wayne Elliott said: "We have been working closely with the Department for Health to develop this service, which is aimed at the vulnerable in society, especially the elderly."
The build-up of heat and humidity could set off some thunderstorms but there is an 80% chance of staying dry.
Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, Andy Page added: "The very warm conditions will last well into next week, with the hottest days of the summer so far and a 60% chance of reaching 32°C (90°F)."
A Department of Health spokesman also said consecutive hot days could also be dangerous for those with heart and respiratory problems as – in extreme cases – excess heat can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal.
The spokesman issued advice: "Keeping the home as cool as possible during hot weather and remembering the needs of friends, relatives and neighbours who could be at risk is essential.
"The elderly and those who are ill, particularly vulnerable during hot weather and the most oppressive conditions occur in our towns and cities.
"Windows should be kept shaded and closed when the temperature is hotter outside than inside.
"People with respiratory problems should stay inside during the hottest part of the day."
(JM/BMcC)
As the rest of the British Isles is to have a week-long heat wave, sun worshippers in Northern Ireland shouldn't get too excited as the forecast is for heavy downpours and thunderstorms over the next five days.
Forecasters said that while temperatures between 22C and 24C are likely throughout this week, torrential rain and cloudy skies will mar the above average temperatures.
The news comes 'hot-on-the-heels' of a national heat wave alert. It was issued by the Department of Health on Friday with warnings that extreme temperatures will be reached in the capital over the coming days.
Temperatures in London are set to reach 32C on Monday and Tuesday, according to the Met Office.
It has predicted that around the country daytime temperatures could reach 29-30C, with minimum night-time temperatures of 15-18C.
Speaking on Friday, the Head of Health Forecasting at the Met Office, Wayne Elliott said: "We have been working closely with the Department for Health to develop this service, which is aimed at the vulnerable in society, especially the elderly."
The build-up of heat and humidity could set off some thunderstorms but there is an 80% chance of staying dry.
Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, Andy Page added: "The very warm conditions will last well into next week, with the hottest days of the summer so far and a 60% chance of reaching 32°C (90°F)."
A Department of Health spokesman also said consecutive hot days could also be dangerous for those with heart and respiratory problems as – in extreme cases – excess heat can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal.
The spokesman issued advice: "Keeping the home as cool as possible during hot weather and remembering the needs of friends, relatives and neighbours who could be at risk is essential.
"The elderly and those who are ill, particularly vulnerable during hot weather and the most oppressive conditions occur in our towns and cities.
"Windows should be kept shaded and closed when the temperature is hotter outside than inside.
"People with respiratory problems should stay inside during the hottest part of the day."
(JM/BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mainly dry this morning with sunny spells then scattered showers breaking out this afternoon. A chilly start then feeling warmer in afternoon sunshine. Light southerly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Any showers at first soon dying out. Then dry overnight with clear periods and turning chilly with a touch of frost later tonight. Minimum temperature 1 °C.