The Met Office has warned of high UV levels across the UK this week as Wales continues to experience above-average temperatures and dry conditions.
The British Red Cross has issued guidance on staying cool at night, advising against alcohol and caffeine during the heatwave. Both can disrupt sleep and contribute to dehydration.
Alcohol and Caffeine Risks
The British Red Cross stated: "Alcohol often goes hand in hand with sunny weather but, it is advised to limit consumption especially in the evening but causes poorer quality of sleep." It added: "Caffeinated drinks are diuretics and may encourage your body to lose fluids, risking dehydration as well as increase your body temperatures."
The NHS recommends adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Inadequate sleep can affect the immune system, concentration, mental function, anxiety, and depression.
Sleep Tips
The British Red Cross advised sticking to usual eating and bed times, avoiding daytime naps, as they can disrupt sleep patterns. They noted: "The heat can also mean you feel more tired during the day because your body is using more energy to regulate internal temperature."
Weather Outlook
Met Office chief forecaster Steve Willington said: "The high pressure has been a key feature of the UK’s weather forecast over the last few weeks, bringing above-average temperatures and extremely dry conditions for many. However, we will begin to see a modest change as a weak weather front pushes south across the UK on Saturday bringing some much-needed rain, albeit it light and mainly concentrated in the north and west." He added that behind the front, a showery air mass could bring heavy, possibly thundery showers. Temperatures remain warm, especially in southern and southwestern parts, remaining in heatwave thresholds.
