HOT! IT’S GOING TO GET EVEN HOTTER
HEALTH experts issued a warning last night as temperatures rocketed across boiling Britain.
Yesterday was the hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures in London’s St James’s Park peaking at 85F (29C) – as warm as southern Spain.
The Met Office forecasts temperatures will soar past 86F in the coming week across England and Wales, while southern parts of Scotland could see 79F.
The notice put out by the Met Office with Public Health England to health care professionals is the first Government health alert of the summer.
The warning states: “There is a 80 per cent probability of heat wave conditions between 9am on Tuesday and 6pm on Thursday in parts of England.
“By Tuesday, isolated spots in the North and West are likely to see temperatures exceeding their thresholds. This warning is likely to be extended from Thursday onward, with the chance of more areas being included, as the dry and settled conditions are expected to persist into the weekend.”
The notice, which runs from today until Thursday, warns that parts of the country are likely to exceed safety thresholds.
Triggered
These are judged to be periods of at least two consecutive days and one night of extreme temperatures.
It is at this stage that heat-related health problems are likely to be triggered, especially in groups such as the very young, the elderly and people with underlying serious health conditions.
The Heat Health Watch service acts as an early warning system to health care professionals and others working in social care, warning of periods of high temperature which may affect the health of the UK public.
Dr Thomas Waite, of Public Health England, said: “Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense.
“But before the hot weather arrives, it is a really good time to think about what you can do to protect yourself and your family and friends from heat.
“For some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and young children, the summer heat can bring real health risks.
“That’s why we’re urging everyone to keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk this summer. If you’re able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support.”
Met Office forecaster Sophie Yeomans said: “We are going to continue with the dry and sunny weather for most places. Top temperatures are going to be on the rise.
“We could see temperatures into the late 80s some time this week, possibly from Tuesday, but more likely from Wednesday.” Network Rail is preparing to introduce speed restrictions for safety reasons as the soaring temperatures mean rails are at risk of buckling.
Spokesman Andy Thomas said: “Our engineers and specialist extreme weather teams are monitoring trackside temperatures and vulnerable locations and will, if necessary, introduce temporary speed restrictions.” Passengers were being advised to carry water.