Britons are facing an impending heatwave set to extend into the following week, as alerted by the UK government. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber health warnings for heat, coinciding with forecasts from the Met Office predicting a more severe heatwave than the one experienced in May. Residents in London, the south-east, south-west, and east of England are under the alert until 8 pm on Tuesday, June 23.
The amber alert indicates potential significant impacts on health and social care services due to high temperatures, leading to an increased risk of deaths, especially among individuals aged 65 and above or with underlying health conditions. Younger age groups may also be affected. In addition, workforce productivity in the affected regions could be hindered by the rising temperatures reaching the mid-30s. The east and west midlands are also under yellow health alerts for heat.
The government’s cautionary measures align with forecasts projecting a surge in temperatures well above the June average, with temperatures forecasted to reach the high 20s Celsius and potentially hitting 32C in southern England on Sunday, with expectations of soaring to 34C or higher on Monday. The weather conditions are expected to remain humid, increasing the likelihood of thunderstorms.
Met Office meteorologist Honor Criswick highlighted the elevated humidity levels, making the heat more uncomfortable and increasing the potential for thunderstorms, predominantly in central and southern England. The heatwave is anticipated to persist over the weekend and into the first part of the following week.
In a previous record-breaking heatwave, May 26 marked the hottest May day on record for England and Wales, with temperatures hitting 35.1C at Kew Gardens and 32.9C at Cardiff Bute Park. The UKHSA heat health alerts also emphasize the risks associated with water-related incidents, including cold-water shock and drowning.
The call for vigilance extends to those heading to the coast, with the Met Office advising that sea-surface temperatures may not be as warm as expected for mid-summer. Samantha Hughes, the National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI, emphasized the importance of being cautious when entering cold water to avoid cold water shock and panic. She recommended following safety protocols, including choosing lifeguarded beaches, floating to live, and calling 999 in case of a coastal emergency.
