26/06/2009

Heatwave Warning Issued By Experts

A heatwave alert has been issued by the Department of Health after warnings that extreme temperatures will be reached over the next few 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.

London, the East of England, South West, South East and the Midlands are the most likely to be affected.

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."

Even though England and Wales will see the highest temperatures, Northern Ireland and Scotland will also have some very warm weather, with continuing chance of thunderstorms in a few places could lead to high rainfall totals locally.

(JM/BMcC)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

03 July 2006
Heatwave warning as temperatures soar
The government has issued a heatwave warning as parts of England look set to bask in temperatures rising above 30C until Wednesday. The Met Office has raised the Heat-Health alert to Level 3, the first time this level has been reached since the service was started in 2004.
01 July 2015
Met Office Records Hottest Temperatures Since 2006
The Met Office has recorded the hottest temperatures since 2006 in England. Data taking today 1 July in parts of the southeast and central areas of the UK have seen temperatures rise over 30 degrees. Other regions have already experienced 34 degrees, with London expected to reach 35 or 36 degrees.
13 May 2005
Heatwave advice as temperatures to soar
Long-range forecasts by the Met Office predict that temperatures are set to soar in the UK during July and August and the Government has published advice on how to cope with high temperatures. The Department of Health is to distribute leaflets instructing people on how to keep cool and protect themselves from hot sun.
09 July 2010
Met Office Issues Hot Weather Warning As Temperatures Get Set To Soar
The Met Office has issued its first Heat-Health alert of the summer, as soaring temperatures have predicted in parts of the UK. Temperatures are expected to peak at 31C across East Anglia and south east England during Friday and Saturday.
17 July 2006
Britain basks in soaring temperatures
England and Wales are enjoying soaring temperatures to rival even holiday resorts in Spain and the Canary Islands. Temperatures of 33C have been predicted in London, beating predicted temperatures of 31C in Ibiza and 27C in the Canaries. The soaring temperatures have increased expectations that a new record high temperature will be set in the UK.