The RAC has advised drivers whose vehicles lack effective air conditioning to postpone non-essential journeys this week, as the UK braces for temperatures approaching 40°C. The Met Office has issued rare red and amber heat alerts, with extreme heat expected particularly on Wednesday and Thursday.
RAC Warning: Postpone Travel or Drive at Cooler Times
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis stated: "Red extreme heat warnings are rare and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week. Drivers whose vehicles don't have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office’s weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop." For those who must travel, Dennis recommended doing so during cooler times of day, especially when transporting vulnerable individuals such as young children and older adults.
Record-Breaking Heat Forecast
The red warnings cover southern and southeastern parts of the UK, where temperatures could surpass the current June record of 35.6°C recorded in Southampton and London in 1976 and 1957 respectively. The last time the UK experienced such extreme heat was in July 2022, when temperatures reached 40°C. Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Mark Sidaway noted: "Red warnings are reserved for the most severe events... on this occasion the heat is expected to be accompanied by high humidity."
Health Risks and Precautions
Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Security Agency, warned: "A red heat health alert indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population." He urged simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during peak hours, and keeping homes cool. The RAC's advice aligns with these health precautions, emphasizing that drivers without air conditioning are at heightened risk inside their vehicles.
