Extreme heat ahead of thunderstorm warnings

The extreme heat warning remains in place until Sunday, with much of England and Wales likely to see temperatures in the low to mid 30s, with an isolated chance of 36 on Saturday and Sunday. The heat warning highlights the potential impacts these heat levels could have on health, transport and infrastructure.

The heat wave continues

Thanks to the influence of high pressure positioned over the UK, the heat will continue to rise for the rest of the week, peaking on Friday and Saturday.

Heatwave criteria are being met, with temperatures widely in the low 20s and 30s across England. Scotland and Northern Ireland could reach official heatwave criteria by Friday.

The Met Office’s Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said: “Continued high pressure over the UK means temperatures have risen every day this week and it is important that people plan for the heat. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 35 degrees Celsius on Friday and possibly 36 degrees Celsius on Saturday and Sunday. Even beyond that, hot conditions will continue in parts of the southern UK until late Monday, and it will become increasingly wet.

“We will see some warm nights, with temperatures in some places staying at 20 degrees Celsius.”

Storm warnings

Yellow storm warnings have been issued for most of the UK, starting in Scotland and Northern Ireland from Sunday afternoon. As the hot weather subsides in the north, the change brings with it the risk of some heavy downpours and the possibility of some surface water flooding.

The warnings will start from 1200 on Sunday in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with later warnings issued further south, including much of England and Wales, from early Monday. The warning signals the start of a change in the dominant weather pattern for the UK as we move into next week.

The Met Office’s deputy chief meteorologist, Jason Kelly, said: “The current hot weather will pave the way for a burst of thunder from the west which will spread south and east early next week. Before that, isolated but intense storms are possible on Sunday and Monday.

The warnings highlight the possibility that some places could see around 50mm of rain in a three-hour period in the north, with some areas further south could see around 30mm of rain in a three-hour period. Frequent hail and lightning are also possible as part of these showers and represent an additional hazard.

“We are continuing to monitor how these thunderstorms develop on Tuesday and Wednesday next week. There is a chance of some fairly intense showers at times for some areas and we are working out their likely location over the next few days.”

While some places further south may be grateful for some rain, with England having its driest July since 1935, heavy downpours and thunder bring with it the possibility of some surface water flooding, falling onto the ground. dry and often not absorbed.

Find out how to stay safe in a storm.

Extreme heat advice

The UK’s Health Safety Agency has issued a level 3 health alert, which is designed to help healthcare professionals manage periods of extreme weather. The alert is in place from Tuesday to Sunday, with the UKHSA advising people to take care of vulnerable people, including the elderly, young children and those with underlying health conditions.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA), said: “Temperatures will feel very warm again this week, particularly in southern and central parts of the country.

“We want everyone to enjoy the warm weather when it arrives, but remember that heat can have a rapid impact on health.

“It’s important to make sure people who are most vulnerable – older people living alone and people with underlying health conditions – are prepared to cope with the hot weather.

“The most important advice is to make sure they stay hydrated, stay cool and take steps to prevent their homes from overheating.”

Find tips for keeping cool in hot weather as part of WeatherReady.

Mark Hardingham, Chairman of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said “Increasing temperatures have seen fire services respond to a greater number of fire and water rescue incidents. Many of these are preventable, so we are asking the public to take steps to ensure they are keeping themselves and their communities safe.

“In this heat, please don’t use your barbecue when you’re out in the countryside or in local parks. Be careful not to dispose of cigarettes without making sure they’re completely wiped out and don’t litter. In these dry conditions it’s very easy for a fire to start and spread quickly.

“Rivers, lakes and other bodies of water can still be very cold even in this hot weather. Jumping in to swim can lead to cold water strokes and accidental drowning, regardless of swimming ability. Unfortunately, this year we have saw a number of victims.

“If you see an open fire, even a small one, or someone in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the fire service so we can respond quickly, but we’re appealing to people to help us prevent incidents, so let’s all stay. sure.”

National Highways Road Safety Chief Jeremy Phillips said: “It’s always very important to plan ahead for your journey and this advice remains the same during periods of hot weather. When hot weather is forecast, remember to take plenty of drinking water with you – enough for you and your passengers. You can visit our website to learn more information about hot weather travel.

“We also advise everyone to check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before setting off.”

Dr. Justine Shotton, President of the British Veterinary Association, said: “While it’s great to make the most of the warm weather, please remember to pay extra attention to pets, many of whom may struggle as the temperature rises . Pets need extra care during the summer to keep them safe from heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heart disease, breathing difficulties and sunburn, many of which can unfortunately be fatal.

“Make sure animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times. Dogs in particular can overheat easily, so make sure they are not walked or exercised during the hottest parts of the day or left inside a hot car or conservatory for even a short time. Keep an eye out for early signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, restlessness and lack of coordination, and contact a vet immediately if you have any concerns.”

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