The Met Office has warned of a potential heatwave early next week, with temperatures possibly reaching 30°C in parts of southeast England. Households are advised to prepare by updating their shopping lists with items that help keep cool and hydrated.
Met Office Forecast: Temperatures Could Hit 30°C
According to the Met Office, temperatures could start building over the weekend, approaching high 20s°C across parts of England and possibly 30°C in the southeast, with mid to high 20s°C in Wales. Tony Wisson, Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster, said: "The forecast for this weekend suggests that temperatures could approach high 20s°C across parts of England, perhaps 30°C in parts of the southeast, with values of mid to high 20s°C in Wales. Although a return to heatwave conditions is looking increasingly likely for some areas, the likelihood of such extreme high temperatures or high levels of humidity as last week is currently low."
Health Risks During Heatwaves
The NHS warns that heatwaves can pose serious health risks, with babies, young children, older people, and those with heart problems, diabetes, or kidney disease especially vulnerable. The health service stated: "During heatwaves, more people than usual get seriously ill or die. When hot weather hits, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know."
Stock Up on Fluids and Cold Foods
The British Heart Foundation recommends that people with heart conditions drink plenty of fluids and eat cold foods during heatwaves. The charity explained: "Hot weather can present specific risks for people with heart conditions because the heart has to work harder to keep the body’s core temperature at normal levels. In hot weather, your blood vessels dilate, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. Studies have shown this puts people with cardiovascular disease at greater risk of health complications and even death, though more research is needed."
To stay hydrated, the British Heart Foundation advises: "Drink plenty of fluids: This will help make up for the fact you are sweating more than usual and prevent your blood pressure from dropping too much. Water is best but milk, sports drinks, diluted squash, fruit juice, tea, and coffee all count. If you have been told to restrict your fluid intake, for example if you have heart failure, speak to your GP or heart failure nurse about other ways to keep cool."
Cold foods like salad and fruit with high water content are recommended to help keep the body cool and provide essential vitamins and minerals. The charity said: "Food with a high water content such as salad or fruit can help keep you cool, and are great sources of vitamins and minerals."
General Advice for All
While the British Heart Foundation's guidance is specifically for those with heart conditions, heatwaves pose a risk to everyone. The NHS advises checking on vulnerable individuals and staying out of the sun during peak hours. If you have any health concerns, seek medical attention.
